Irish Star Finn Azaz Explains Choice Over Israel Despite Eligibility

Finn Azaz, a 26-year-old footballer with an Israeli mother and an Irish father, has been included in the Republic of Ireland squad for upcoming matches against Israel. Azaz, who plays for Southampton alongside Israeli player Daniel Peretz, previously represented Ireland at the senior level after being eligible to play for Israel due to his mother's citizenship.

In a 2024 interview, Azaz explained his decision to represent Ireland, stating, "As a child, I often came to Ireland because of my father and his family side." He added, "I can represent the Israeli national team because my mother has Israeli citizenship, but I always wanted to be in Ireland. That was always my goal, and there were some conversations in that regard before." He recalled receiving a call from the Israeli youth coach shortly before a match against Israel's youth team, which led to further discussions.

Azaz was born in England in September 2000 and played in the youth systems of West Bromwich Albion. He progressed through various senior clubs, including Cheltenham, Newport County, Aston Villa's reserve team, and Plymouth, before moving to Middlesbrough and then Southampton. His transfer to Southampton was reportedly valued at approximately 17.4 million euros, making him the second most expensive Jewish player ever, behind Walter Samuel's transfer to Real Madrid for 25 million euros.