Israeli Footballer Abandons Sevilla Move Amidst Pro-Palestinian Backlash

Israeli footballer Tai Abeid has officially joined Real Valladolid on loan from Levante, his father Kobi Abeid confirmed in a radio interview. The elder Abeid revealed that Tai had multiple offers, including from Sevilla in Spain's top league and Valladolid in the second division.

Negotiations with Sevilla had progressed significantly, with financial terms agreed upon. However, the deal stalled due to disagreements between Levante and Sevilla over transfer fees and potential clauses for Abeid's return in January. Crucially, Kobi Abeid stated that online backlash, including pro-Palestinian comments and threats directed at Tai and the family on social media and the Levante website, caused them to reconsider the Sevilla move.

"We saw some reactions on social media that made us take a step back," Kobi Abeid explained. "Because to put Tai in a situation where the crowd doesn't want him to come and pro-Palestinian reactions caused us to think twice... he received messages, both on his Instagram and that we received as a family."

Valladolid, who had previously shown interest in Abeid two years prior, re-entered the picture and made the family feel highly valued. The club emphasized their desire for Tai to play a significant role in their promotion efforts. Valladolid's commitment to providing Abeid with playing time, including a contractual clause guaranteeing minutes, was a key factor in the decision.

Kobi Abeid also highlighted positive interactions with Valladolid's coach, Fran Escribá, and other club officials, who offered the family a warm welcome and assurance that Tai would be well-supported. He believes the Spanish second division is strong enough for Tai to prove himself and expects him to have a good season with the attacking-minded team.