Liverpool forward Mo Salah has criticised UEFA for not stating how Palestinian football star Suleiman al-Obeid died in its tribute post.
UEFA wrote on social media that al-Obeid was “a talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times.”
The post did not mention that, according to the Palestine Football Association, the 41-year-old was killed by an Israeli airstrike while waiting for humanitarian aid in southern Gaza on August 6, 2025.
Salah responded on X, asking: “Can you tell us how he died, where, and why?” UEFA has said it will not comment on his statement.
Al-Obeid, known as the “Palestinian Pelé,” played 24 matches for the Palestinian national team and scored over 100 goals in his career. He played for clubs in both Gaza and the West Bank, including Khadamat al-Shati and Al-Amari Youth Center.
The Palestinian Football Association said he leaves behind a wife, two sons, and three daughters. His death adds to the loss of more than 300 members of Gaza’s football community since October 2023.
The conflict in Gaza continues to cause severe humanitarian challenges, with the United Nations reporting over 1,000 deaths near aid distribution sites and convoys since late May.
