In a world where football has become a bridge between nations, religions, and identities – Jerusalem lags behind. Muslim players team up with Christians in Europe, with Jews in the Americas, and top clubs integrate anyone with talent. But in a city that claims a universal mission – one club still draws the line. Beitar Jerusalem, the city’s flagship team, showed no interest in one of the league’s most sought-after players – who happens to be Arab
Football, which is supposed to unite
has become – in Jerusalem – a symbol of division
(Summer in Jerusalem – and Every Parent’s Worst Fear)
Hammoudi Kana’an: One of the Hottest Names on the Market – But Not for Everyone
Kana’an, 25, from Majd al-Krum, spent five seasons with F.C. Ashdod, scoring 33 league goals and appearing in both the youth and senior national teams. In the summer of 2025, his name came up with only two clubs – Maccabi Haifa and Hapoel Be’er Sheva. Eventually, he signed with Be’er Sheva in what many view as a major transfer
But at Beitar Jerusalem – there was no interest at all
Perhaps it’s a coincidence. Perhaps not
But for many, it feels less like an oversight – and more like a pattern
“Pure Forever”: A Message That Still Shapes Policy
The slogan once scrawled across Beitar’s stands – “Pure Forever” – never truly vanished. It still echoes in whispers, in pressure, and sometimes in unofficial decisions. For years, no Arab player has signed with the team, even when relevant professional opportunities arose
Fan pressure, especially from the “La Familia” group, has often blocked such moves
When football bows to extremism – the damage is far more than just tactical
A Silent Form of Exclusion That Reaches the Whole City
When the leading club in a city like Jerusalem avoids considering Arab players – even unofficially – it sends a message. Jerusalem is meant to embody diversity, connection, openness. But on its central football field, an ethnic wall is being built
What might appear as a technical decision
is perceived by the public as a principled refusal
(From Jerusalem to Gaza: The Bloody Path of Abu Sninah Ends)
Not a Bridge – Just Another Line of Division
Kana’an, a talented, respected Israeli player – wasn’t even considered by Beitar
Not because of his performance
But seemingly, because of his name
And if, in Jerusalem 2025, an Arab player is still not seen as a viable choice – football has failed
But so has the city
And all of us
