Turkish Broadcaster Calls Dia Saba 'Unwanted Persona' in Israel

A prominent Turkish sports broadcaster has described Israeli-Arab footballer Dia Saba as an "unwanted persona" in Israel, suggesting that not being called up to the national team is a "huge honor" for him. The comments came after Saba, a key player for Turkish club Göztepe, was not included in the latest Israeli national team squad.

Despite the omission, Israeli national team coach Ran Ben Shimon stated that Saba remains professionally valued and has a place on the team. However, Ben Shimon explained that the decision not to call him up was made in consultation with Saba, citing concerns that a national team call-up might negatively impact his future career. "If a player has to think if a national team call-up will affect his future, that is not right. Therefore, we decided in a joint conversation that it is not suitable at the moment," Ben Shimon said.

Artem Saner, a leading Turkish commentator and broadcaster, voiced a controversial opinion on the matter. He referred to Saba as an "Israeli-Muslim" who has been declared "unwanted" in Israel, claiming he has received threats and that some believe he should not play for the national team. Saner controversially concluded that not playing for Israel is an even greater honor for Saba.

Saba has been a standout performer for Göztepe, leading them to the top of the Turkish Super Lig after six rounds of play. His exclusion from the national team has generated significant criticism.