German second-division soccer club Fortuna Düsseldorf has scrapped its deal to sign Israeli national team striker Shon Weissman due to intense backlash from fans over his past social media posts regarding Gaza. Weissman, 29, had reportedly finalized terms with the club and passed a medical exam, but the team ultimately decided not to sign him following widespread protests.
“We conducted a thorough review of the player, but ultimately decided not to sign him,” the club said in an official statement, acknowledging the significant public pressure that led to this decision. Fortuna Düsseldorf’s management had been aware of Weissman’s controversial posts before entering negotiations but reversed course in response to intensifying public pressure.
The controversy surrounds Weissman’s social media activity after Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel. He had posted messages interpreted as calling for the destruction of Gaza, including “What is the logical reason why 200 tons of bombs have not already been dropped on Gaza?” and “Why the hell aren’t they being shot in the head?” regarding two detained Palestinians. Weissman also liked and reposted messages saying “wipe Gaza off the map.”
Weissman’s agent, Boaz Goren, claimed that the posts and likes were not made by Weissman himself but by a social media manager with access to his accounts. Despite this, the player’s comments drew criticism during his stint in Spain’s La Liga and resurfaced amid the recent transfer speculation.
In response to the news, Weissman stated, “I am deeply grateful for the support I’ve received from people that actually know me, and I will continue to proudly carry the Israeli flag wherever I play.” He also expressed his loyalty to his country, saying, “A person will always stand with their country no matter what… I am a son of a nation still grieving from the horrors of October 7.”
The fan reaction was swift, with supporters launching an online petition against Weissman’s signing, citing his posts as “disrespectful and discriminatory”.
The club initially seemed to defend Weissman, with a social media manager posting, “Judging people you don’t know based on their Wikipedia page? That’s not in line with our values.” However, this stance was later reversed as the club prioritized its values and responded to fan concerns.