Israeli Anan Khalili to Join Crystal Palace Alongside Moroccan Defender Who Supported Israel Suspension
Israeli footballer Anan Khalili is set to sign with Crystal Palace, marking one of the most intriguing transfers in Israeli football. Khalili will join the English Premier League club and share the locker room with Moroccan international defender Shaadi Riyad. Riyad, 23, previously played for Barcelona and was loaned to Real Betis in the 2023/2024 season before moving to Crystal Palace.
Notably, Riyad was among 70 footballers, including stars like Paul Pogba, Amad Diallo, Hakim Ziyech, and Adama Traore, who signed a letter in November 2025 urging UEFA to suspend Israel from all competitions until it complies with international law and stops killing civilians and causing mass starvation in Gaza. Khalili’s transfer to Crystal Palace is seen as a significant step in his career as he aims to make a successful leap in the Premier League.
This development highlights the intersection of sports and politics, with players from different backgrounds and political views now teammates at a major English club. Khalili’s move will be closely watched by fans and analysts interested in both his athletic progress and the broader implications of Riyad’s political stance within the team environment.
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