Irish Football Star Finn Azaz May Retire from National Team Amid Israel Controversy
Concerns are mounting in Ireland that Finn Azaz, a key player for the national football team, might retire from international duty following the current "window" of matches. Irish media reports suggest that the ongoing controversy surrounding the team's games against Israel could significantly impact the 26-year-old midfielder. Azaz finds himself in a particularly sensitive position due to his direct family ties to Israel; his mother is from an Israeli family, and his maternal grandfather was the late Israeli sculptor Nehemia Azaz, who had a notable career in Israel and served in the Jewish Brigade during World War II and the armored corps in the 1948 War of Independence.
The controversy intensified after Gavin Bazunu announced his refusal to participate in the matches against Israel, leading to further discussions within the Irish team. This internal turmoil has reportedly led the Irish Football Association to fear that Azaz might end his international career after the current matches. Azaz, born in London, previously had the option to represent Israel due to his family eligibility but chose Ireland, stating his lifelong ambition was to play for them.
Azaz has become a pivotal player for Middlesbrough since joining in January 2024, contributing significantly with goals and assists. He transferred to Southampton in August 2025 for a reported £15 million. At Southampton, he shares a locker room with Israeli goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, and the two are reportedly close. This connection, combined with his family background, makes the current situation surrounding the matches against Israel particularly delicate for him.
As of now, Azaz himself has not announced any intention to retire. However, if he were to step down, it would mark a significant development for a player who had the choice to represent Israel but publicly committed to Ireland, only to potentially leave the national team due to the controversy surrounding the matches between the two nations.
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