Israeli Goalkeeper Niv Eliasi to Play Alongside Mohamed Elneny, Known for Anti-Israel Stances
Israeli goalkeeper Niv Eliasi will play for Greek club Levadiakos this season alongside Egyptian midfielder Mohamed Elneny, a former Arsenal player who has repeatedly expressed anti-Israel sentiments. Eliasi, 23, joined Levadiakos on loan from Hapoel Be'er Sheva this summer, marking his first move abroad.
Elneny, 33, officially signed a one-year contract with Levadiakos after playing for Al Jazira last season. He previously played for Arsenal and Besiktas. Elneny's history of anti-Israel statements dates back to 2013 when he and Mohamed Salah initially refused to travel to Israel for a Champions League qualifier while playing for Basel, though they eventually complied, stating, "It is our job."
On a subsequent trip to Israel with Basel, Elneny referred to the country as "occupied Palestine" and expressed joy in meeting Palestinians who encouraged him. Following the October 7th attacks, Elneny posted on social media calling for the "liberation of Palestine" and action for the residents of Gaza.
Eliasi will now share a locker room with Elneny at Levadiakos, with both players representing the Greek club this season.
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