Dubai’s football club, al-Nasr, has made history by becoming the first Arab club to sign an Israeli player. Dia Saba, a midfielder, has joined al-Nasr on a two-year deal after leaving the Chinese Super League club, Guangzhou R&F. This landmark move comes just weeks after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) normalized relations with Israel.
Al-Nasr, a team in the UAE Pro League, confirmed the signing of Saba in a statement, saying, Al-Nasr has completed the procedures with Dia Saba… in a contract that extends for two seasons after he successfully passed medical examinations this morning.
Born in Israel to Palestinian parents, Saba began his professional football career with Beitar Nes Tubruk. He later joined Maccabi Tel Aviv in 2012 and went on to play for several other Israeli clubs, including Maccabi Petah Tikva, Maccabi Netanya, and Hapoel Be’er Sheva. Saba then moved to Guangzhou R&F, where he impressed with 18 goals in 36 appearances. He has also earned 10 caps for the Israeli national team.
Saba will join al-Nasr’s roster of overseas players, which includes Cape Verde winger Ryan Mendes, Curacao winger Brandley Kuwas, and Portuguese midfielder Tuze. Al-Nasr finished sixth in the league standings before the 2019-2020 season was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The new season is set to begin next month.
The signing of an Israeli player by an Arab club marks a significant moment in the region’s sporting history. It showcases the positive impact of the recent normalization of relations between the UAE and Israel. This move not only highlights the increasing openness and tolerance in the Middle East but also promotes greater diversity and cultural exchange within the world of football.
While the news of Saba’s signing has been met with enthusiasm by many, it is not without controversy. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains a deeply divisive issue, and this signing has raised questions and sparked debate among fans and commentators. However, it also presents an opportunity for dialogue and understanding, fostering a sense of unity through a shared passion for football.
As al-Nasr leads the way by signing an Israeli player, it sets a precedent for other Arab clubs to follow. This groundbreaking decision may inspire further collaborations and exchanges between clubs across the Middle East, promoting sportsmanship, unity, and cooperation.
The signing of Dia Saba by al-Nasr is not only a significant step for the UAE but also a milestone for the entire Arab world. It exemplifies the power of sports in transcending borders, bridging divides, and promoting peace. This historic move opens up possibilities for future collaborations between Arab and Israeli clubs, fostering greater understanding and harmony in the region.
As the new season approaches, football fans eagerly await the debut of Dia Saba in his new team’s colors. This momentous signing has already made headlines around the world, capturing the attention and imagination of sports enthusiasts globally. Al-Nasr’s progressive approach sends a powerful message of inclusion, diversity, and unity, reaffirming the transformative role of sports in building bridges and breaking down barriers.
