Israeli Coach Explains Dia Saba's National Team Snub Amid Turkish Controversy

Israeli national football team coach Ran Ben Shimon has clarified the decision not to call up midfielder Dia Saba for the upcoming international window, despite Saba's stellar performance leading Turkish club Amedspor to the top of the league. Ben Shimon stated that Saba remains a professionally valued player for the national team, but the decision was made jointly due to complexities surrounding potential implications for Saba's future.

"I am in constant contact with Dia Saba, professionally he has a place in the national team. I understand the complexity, if a player needs to think if a national team call-up will affect his future, that is less correct. Therefore, we decided in a joint conversation that it is not suitable at the moment," Ben Shimon explained.

The situation has also drawn strong reactions in Turkey. Ertem Şener, a prominent Turkish sports commentator and broadcaster, controversially stated that Saba, an Israeli-Muslim footballer, has been declared an "undesirable person" in Israel, facing threats and exclusion, and that not playing for the national team is an even greater honor for him. Şener's remarks suggest Saba is ostracized in Israel, with some even arguing he shouldn't play for the national team.

Saba has been a key player for Amedspor, helping them achieve promotion to the top tier of Turkish football and currently leading the league after six matches. His exclusion from the national team has sparked debate among fans and media in both countries.