Pogon Szczecin Rejects Transfer Offers from Maccabi Tel Aviv
Polish football club Pogon Szczecin has declined transfer offers from Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv, with club owner Alex Haditaghi citing ethical concerns over Israel’s actions in the region.
Haditaghi announced on social media that the club would not enter negotiations for defenders Dimitris Keramitsis and Leo Borges, despite interest from Maccabi Tel Aviv.
In a letter addressed to the Israeli club’s president, Haditaghi said football should represent values such as unity, respect, hope and humanity, rather than political divisions.
He argued that the ongoing suffering of civilians in Gaza, Lebanon, Iran and other parts of the region made it inappropriate for his club to conduct business with an Israeli team at this time. He stated that his responsibilities extend beyond financial considerations and include upholding moral principles and humanitarian values.
Haditaghi compared the decision to refusing business relations with sports clubs linked to Nazi Germany, saying ethical standards should take precedence over profit. He concluded that there are moments when principles are more important than financial gain.
The rejected offers involved Keramitsis and Borges, who remain under contract with Pogon Szczecin.
