Pakistan-eligible Norwegian footballer rejects €850,000 offer from Israeli club
1. "For me, it’s not about the money; my values matter more," says Sæter
Norwegian footballer Ole Sæter, who is eligible to represent Pakistan through his maternal heritage, has declined a lucrative €850,000 offer from Israeli football club Maccabi Haifa. The 28-year-old striker cited his strong personal values and moral principles as the key reasons for his decision, emphasizing that for him, humanity takes precedence over financial gain.
In an interview with a Norwegian newspaper, Sæter said, "Even if I were offered 500 million dollars, I would not join an Israeli club. It's not about the money; my values are more important. I cannot represent a country that perpetuates violence and insecurity."
He further explained his stance: "I don’t want any money tainted by the suffering of others. People in that region are living in fear in their own homes, and I can’t, in good conscience, accept such blood money, no matter the amount."
Sæter has previously demonstrated his connection to Pakistan, posting photos on social media wearing the national football team jersey, showing pride in his maternal roots. His grandfather was a Pakistani citizen, which grants Sæter eligibility to represent Pakistan in international football.
"I am confident in where my values lead me, and I stand by what I believe is right. No sum of money can buy my conscience," Sæter told Norwegian media.
