Maccabi Tel Aviv Player Christian Blicq Considers Conversion to Judaism

Maccabi Tel Aviv soccer player Christian Blicq has revealed a deep connection to Israel and is considering converting to Judaism, according to an interview with his mentor, Dr. Shlomo Maoz (formerly Miroslav Petrovic).

Maoz, who specializes in connecting Torah studies with science, stated that Blicq has been in contact with him for eight years, initially drawn to his lectures on Israel, Torah, and Judaism. Blicq, who is Christian according to official documents, reportedly identifies with the "Aralli" tribe, a historical offshoot of the tribe of Gad, which Maoz claims settled in the Balkans. Maoz asserts that both he and Blicq share this "Aralli" heritage and that Blicq lives according to Jewish traditions.

Blicq, who Maoz calls by the Hebrew name "Levan" (derived from the Serbian word for white, similar to Blicq's surname), has reportedly been living a life guided by Jewish practices. This includes observing Shabbat to the extent possible, avoiding non-kosher food, celebrating Jewish holidays like Passover and Sukkot, and fasting on Yom Kippur. Maoz shared that he has shared meals and performed Kiddush with Blicq at his apartment in Bat Yam.

Maoz explained that Blicq's desire to move to Israel was a long-held aspiration, even influencing his career choices when he played for West Ham. When an offer from Maccabi Tel Aviv materialized, Blicq eagerly accepted, seeing it as a fulfillment of his long-standing wish. Maoz believes Blicq's spiritual connection to Israel is so strong that he would play for less money to remain in the country.

Regarding conversion, Maoz stated that he recently advised Blicq that to be a "true Jew," he should undergo formal conversion. Blicq is reportedly seriously considering this step, driven by his faith and strong connection to Israel, where his wife is also pregnant. Maoz envisions Blicq remaining in Israel permanently with his family.