Salah lashes out at UEFA for post about Palestinian Pelé

From the Editorial Staff and AFP

La Jornada Newspaper, Sunday, August 10, 2025, p. a11

Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah has lashed out at UEFA on social media following a post in which European football's governing body expressed its condolences for the death of former star Suleiman Al-Obeid, known as the Palestinian Pelé , who was killed in an Israeli strike during an aid distribution in the southern Gaza Strip.

“Farewell to Suleiman Al-Obeid, the Palestinian Pelé . A talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the most difficult times,” UEFA posted on a picture of the 41-year-old former player on social media, to which Salah, the Egyptian national team player, added questions that were echoed by thousands of followers.

"Can you explain to us how, where, and why he died?" the Egyptian asked, given the organization's stance of not mentioning the conflict and distancing itself from the humanitarian crisis reported in Gaza.

On Friday, the Palestinian Football Association announced the death of Al-Obeid, who was married and the father of five children, according to AFP.

Nicknamed "The Gazelle" and the Palestinian Pelé , Al-Obeid began his career with local club Khadamat Al-Shati. His talent and speed led him to the national team, with whom he earned 24 international caps. With over 100 goals scored throughout his career, he was considered a star of his country's football.