West Ham's signing of Manor Solomon draws backlash from pro-Palestinian fans

West Ham United have completed the signing of winger Manor Solomon from Tottenham Hotspur for an initial fee estimated at £5 million ($6.75 million), potentially rising to £7 million ($9.45 million) based on performance. The club's board has described the deal as a key part of their push for Premier League promotion, calling it an “non-negotiable objective.”

However, shortly after the transfer was announced, West Ham's social media accounts were flooded with critical comments, featuring Palestinian flag emojis, calls for boycotts, and messages reading “Free Palestine.” Some fans also showed support for Solomon by adding Israeli flag emojis to the conversation.

Solomon, 27, won two Ukrainian Premier League titles with Shakhtar Donetsk, scored against Real Madrid in the Champions League, and netted in four consecutive Premier League matches while at Fulham. In the 2024-2025 season, he impressed at Leeds United with 10 goals and 12 assists in 39 appearances, playing a key role in their Championship title victory.

However, politics quickly overshadowed the transfer. Solomon has frequently used his public platform to voice support for Israel. Weeks after the October 7, 2023 attacks, he wrote on Instagram that “Israel has the right to defend itself” and urged people to “pray for Israel.” During Israel's military campaign in Gaza, he shared posts accusing Palestinian groups of “killing their own people and blaming Israel.”

As the “All Eyes on Rafah” movement spread online, Solomon posted a question: “Where were your eyes on October 7?” He has also spoken openly about advocating for Israeli hostages and explaining Israel's position to teammates.

Earlier, when he joined Villarreal in September 2025, Solomon faced similar backlash. Pro-Palestinian accounts posted Palestinian flag emojis, called for boycotts, and declared he was unwelcome. The hostility extended to stadiums, with Palestinian flags raised and Solomon booed during Villarreal's away match at Sevilla.

Some West Ham supporters argue that sport should remain separate from politics. Callum Gordon, a 28-year-old season ticket holder and longtime fan, told Al Jazeera: “I like to separate politics and football, and want to focus on what he can bring as a player.”

In contrast, Iola Wright, a 20-year-old West Ham fan, said she fundamentally disagrees with Solomon's posts “related to what I believe is a genocide in Gaza.” She added: “He's undeniably a good player, but team spirit and the connection between the club and fans matter most this season. This signing could hurt both.”

Solomon previously served in the Israeli military. In 2018, Walla Sport reported that he completed basic military training while playing professionally, after which he received elite athlete status with lighter conditions to pursue opportunities abroad. The Guardian has described him as having “served in the Israeli army.” There is no evidence he participated in combat or was directly linked to abuse allegations.

For Palestinians who survived attacks in Gaza, Solomon's military service is not seen as neutral. Abubaker Abed, a sports journalist from the Gaza Strip, said West Ham's decision reflects hypocrisy: “Football governing bodies and most clubs in Europe and England are wallowing in hypocrisy and selective outrage.”

According to the Palestinian Football Association, as of February 12, 2026, 1,007 members of Gaza's sporting community have been killed, including 565 involved in football, with 265 facilities damaged. “How can these players be trusted at clubs while they support the destruction of Gaza, including clubs and stadiums?” Abed asked.

West Ham has not responded to the criticism. Al Jazeera also contacted Solomon's representatives for comment but has not received a reply.