Liverpool star Mohamed Salah has unleashed a firestorm of controversy with a bold and provocative follow-up to his initial call-out of UEFA, intensifying scrutiny over the European football governing body’s response to the death of Suleiman al-Obeid, dubbed the “Palestinian Pelé.” Just days after questioning UEFA’s vague tribute to the fallen footballer, killed in an Israeli attack in southern Gaza, Salah doubled down with a shocking statement that has sent shockwaves through the football world. In a new post on X on August 9, 2025, the Egyptian icon demanded accountability, writing: “UEFA, you mourn a hero but hide how he was slaughtered. Are you afraid to speak the truth?” This bombshell accusation has sparked heated debates, with fans and critics alike questioning UEFA’s silence and Salah’s fearless advocacy amid the ongoing Gaza conflict.

A Tragic Loss and a Vague Tribute

Suleiman al-Obeid, a celebrated Palestinian footballer, was killed on July 30, 2025, during an Israeli attack on civilians waiting for humanitarian aid in southern Gaza, according to the Palestine Football Association (PFA). The 41-year-old, renowned for his stunning scissor-kick goal against Yemen in the 2010 West Asian Football Federation Championship, was hailed as “one of the brightest stars of Palestinian football.” Survived by his wife and children, Obeid’s death added to the staggering toll of 421 footballers, including 103 children, reported killed in Israeli assaults, alongside the destruction of 288 sports facilities, including the PFA headquarters, as per the PFA’s August 2025 statement.

UEFA issued a brief condolence on social media: “Farewell to Suleiman al-Obeid, the ‘Palestinian Pelé.’ A talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times.” The post, while heartfelt, omitted details about the circumstances of Obeid’s death, prompting Salah’s initial response on August 1: “Can you tell us how he died, where, and why?” Unsatisfied with UEFA’s lack of follow-up, Salah escalated his critique, accusing the organization of deliberately sidestepping the truth to avoid political backlash. His latest X post, viewed over 5 million times within hours, included a pointed jab: “You call him a hero, but you won’t say how heroes are being erased. Silence is complicity.”

Salah’s Bold Stand Sparks Global Reaction

Salah’s outspokenness has ignited a polarized response. Supporters flooded X with praise, with one user writing, “Mo Salah is more than a footballer—he’s a voice for the voiceless. UEFA’s silence is deafening.” Others, however, accused him of politicizing football, with a critic commenting, “Salah should stick to scoring goals, not stirring drama. UEFA isn’t a human rights org.” The controversy has reignited debates about the role of sports figures in addressing geopolitical issues, especially as Salah’s platform—bolstered by his 20 million X followers—amplifies his message.

The Liverpool forward, who has previously spoken out on Gaza, reiterated his stance in a recent interview with Sky Sports on August 10, 2025: “I can’t stay silent when innocent lives, including athletes like Suleiman, are taken. Football is about joy, but it’s also about humanity. If UEFA can’t speak up for that, what are they for?” His words echo his October 2023 statement during an earlier escalation of the conflict: “All lives are sacred and must be protected. The massacres need to stop.” Salah’s consistent advocacy has positioned him as a moral compass for many, though it risks alienating segments of his fanbase and drawing scrutiny from football authorities.

UEFA Under Pressure: A Growing Controversy

Salah’s accusations have put UEFA in a precarious position. The organization, which governs European football and champions initiatives like anti-racism campaigns, faces criticism for its cautious approach to the Gaza conflict. Insiders suggest UEFA’s reluctance stems from fears of backlash from member federations or sponsors, especially given the political sensitivities surrounding Israel and Palestine. A UEFA spokesperson responded to Salah’s latest post with a brief statement: “We mourn all lives lost and remain committed to promoting peace through football.” Critics, including PFA officials, called the response “woefully inadequate,” pointing to the destruction of Palestinian sports infrastructure as a direct attack on the game’s spirit.

The PFA’s August 2025 report, shared with Reuters, detailed the devastating impact: “421 footballers, including children, have been killed, and 288 sports facilities reduced to rubble. This is a war on our game.” Salah’s call-out has drawn attention to these figures, with hashtags like #JusticeForObeid trending across social media. Fans have also unearthed older clips of Obeid’s iconic goals, circulating them as tributes to his legacy.

A Legacy of Courage and Compassion

Salah’s defiance comes at a pivotal moment in his career. As Liverpool’s star forward under new manager Arne Slot, he continues to shine on the pitch, recently praising teammate Alexander Isak while navigating transfer rumors. Yet, his off-field actions are cementing his legacy as more than an athlete. “Mo’s not just playing for goals; he’s playing for justice,” said a fan on X, reflecting the sentiment of many in the Arab world and beyond.

As the Gaza conflict continues, Salah’s challenge to UEFA raises broader questions about the role of sports institutions in addressing human rights. His willingness to risk his reputation—potentially facing sanctions or sponsor backlash—has drawn comparisons to icons like Muhammad Ali, who spoke out against injustice at great personal cost. Whether UEFA will respond with more transparency remains unclear, but Salah’s words have ensured that Suleiman al-Obeid’s name, and the plight of Palestinian athletes, will not be forgotten.