Bazunu withdraws from Ireland squad: ‘The killing of innocent people is wrong’

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu has withdrawn from the squad for the Nations League games against Israel, saying his decision is based on his belief that the killing of innocent people is wrong.

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu announced in an Instagram statement on September 26 that he will not take part in the UEFA Nations League matches against Israel and has withdrawn from the squad. The first game is on Sunday, September 27, in Debrecen, Hungary, and the second on October 4 behind closed doors in Bačka Topola, Serbia.

“Representing my country means everything to me. I have the utmost respect for every single one of my teammates, the manager, his staff and the Irish people,” Bazunu said. “However, I have reached a decision that I have not taken lightly. I am a man of strong faith and try my best to be a person of character and principle, therefore I feel it would be wrong to participate in the upcoming fixtures against Israel.”

“My decision is based purely upon my personal belief that the killing of innocent people is wrong. It is important to note that my stance is not in opposition of the Israeli people or the Jewish community but against the atrocities in the region,” he added. “There are few times where you get a chance in life to stand up for something bigger and I strongly believe this is one of them.”

FAI chief executive David Courell had said Ireland would play after a “significant majority” of players voted in favor, while manager Heimir Hallgrimsson said there may be more discussions among the players about the match. Ireland’s players had missed their final training session in Debrecen.