Become a Member
News

Chelsea signing Salah 'refused to shake Israeli hands'

January 24, 2014 10:46

By

Marcus Dysch,

Marcus Dysch

1 min read

Chelsea's new Egyptian midfielder once refused to shake hands with Israeli footballers after apparently being pressured by extreme groups in his home country.

Mohamad Salah, signed this week from FC Basle for £11 million, sparked controversy when his Swiss side played Maccabi Tel Aviv in Champions League qualifying matches last year.

As the teams lined up for the customary handshake before the first leg of their contest, Salah instead went to the side of the pitch to change his boots.

He was not expected to travel to Israel for the return game a week later on August 6. But the 21-year-old was named in the starting line-up and made minimal contact in the pre-match ceremony - simply bumping fists with the Tel Aviv players.

To get more news, click here to sign up for our free daily newsletter.

Editor’s picks