Kfar Qassem Club Explains Player's Release to Palestinian National Team

The Israeli football club Maccabi Ahi Nazareth, also known as Kfar Qassem, has explained its decision to allow player Ahmed Taha to represent the Palestinian national team, a move that has caused controversy. Taha, a defender, previously began representing Palestine about a year ago, sparking debate. He has now chosen to play for the Palestinian team in upcoming matches against New Zealand and Tajikistan.

The club stated that they cannot prevent Taha from joining the national team due to regulations from UEFA or the Football Association. They explained that if they refused his request, Taha would become a free agent, and a Qatari club interested in him would likely sign him without any transfer fee. To avoid this financial loss, Kfar Qassem agreed to his departure.

Ramzi Badir, responsible for sports at Kfar Qassem, clarified the club's position. He mentioned that while a Qatari club is keen on Taha, they are currently unwilling to pay a transfer fee to an Israeli club. However, Kfar Qassem has reached an agreement with a Qatari team that would provide them with significant funds and allow Taha to pursue his dream of playing in Qatar. The impasse arises from the Qatari clubs' reluctance to transfer money to an Israeli entity.

Badir added that the club received $14,000 in grants from Taha's previous participation with the national team and expects similar compensation for the current campaign. Head coach Yaron Hochenboim is reportedly aware of and agrees with the club's handling of the situation. Kfar Qassem hopes the Football Association will intervene to prevent players from becoming free agents in such circumstances, allowing for renegotiation. For now, Taha will continue to play for both Kfar Qassem and the Palestinian national team. Taha recently played 84 minutes in Palestine's 2-2 draw against New Zealand in a preparatory match.