Norwegian footballer Ole Sæter has declined a lucrative €850,000 offer from Israeli football club Maccabi Haifa. The 28-year-old striker, who is also eligible to represent Pakistan due to his maternal lineage, made headlines for prioritizing his conscience over financial gain.
“No Money Can Buy My Conscience”
Speaking to a Norwegian newspaper, Sæter emphasized that his refusal to sign with the Israeli club was based on ethical reasons. “Even if I were offered 500 million dollars, I would not join an Israeli club. For me, it’s not about the money; my values matter more,” he explained. He further elaborated on his stance, highlighting the violence and suffering in the region. “People in that region are living in fear in their own homes, and I cannot in good conscience accept such blood money, no matter how large the sum.”
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Strong Moral Stance
Sæter’s decision to reject the offer is rooted in his belief that representing a club from Israel, a country he associates with the ongoing conflict and human suffering, goes against his personal values. The striker made it clear that no amount of money could convince him to compromise on his moral principles, adding that he couldn’t “play for a country that is responsible for the loss of innocent lives.”
Connection to Pakistan
Sæter’s rejection of Maccabi Haifa’s offer is also notable for his personal connection to Pakistan. His maternal grandfather was a Pakistani citizen, making him eligible to represent Pakistan on the international football stage. Sæter has previously shared photos on social media of himself wearing Pakistan’s national football jersey, showing his emotional connection to his roots.
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His decision has sparked attention, especially in Pakistan, where many fans have expressed their admiration for his firm moral stance. With his talents on the pitch and a strong sense of ethics, Sæter’s future in football will likely continue to attract attention, especially from those eager to see if he’ll represent Pakistan in the international arena.