Gavin Bazunu and Republic of Ireland
26 September 2026
Gavin Bazunu has withdrawn from Republic of Ireland’s Nations League fixtures against Israel after deciding he could not participate on personal principle. The remaining squad voted by a significant majority to fulfil the two scheduled matches.
Ireland intend to wear black armbands, withdraw from parts of the pre-match ceremony and make charitable contributions from match fees. Bazunu confirmed his decision publicly after the squad’s lengthy discussions, while the rest of the players returned to training.