The talking points page is ready
It is Israel that is indiscriminately killing children, destroying hospitals, bombing without stop. It is what causes Guardiola — like anyone exposed to the brutal images and who does not stubbornly cover their face — to feel “pain all over the body,” and refuses to “love life and care for your neighbour”
By Noa Epstein • Translated by Sol Salbe
The greatest football coach in the world receives an honorary doctorate from the University of Manchester. Pep Guardiola, the man who created Barcelona’s “Dream Team” and is currently coaching Manchester City, chooses to dedicate his speech to the brutality of the killing of children. He speaks about how brutality in one place can spread to another, and encourages anyone who sees injustice to do something — even something small, like a bird trying to extinguish a fire with a drop of water. The main thing, he says, is not to stand by and not to keep quiet.
A nice proper speech. It makes sense that a person revered worldwide would try to make a positive impact and reduce suffering. What a pity that at the centre of this suffering stands Israel as the perpetrator. It is Israel that is indiscriminately killing children, destroying hospitals, bombing without stop. It is what causes Guardiola — like anyone exposed to the brutal images and who does not stubbornly cover their face — to feel “pain all over the body,” and refuses to “love life and care for your neighbour.”
A moment after October 7, things looked different. Around the world, and especially in German stadiums, players and coaches have expressed empathy for the victims of the brutal attack. Since then, Israel, under the leadership of the government of evil, has done everything possible to be cruel to its own people and the denizens next doorit, and has succeeded in bringing upon us the hatred of the world — well-reasoned and justified.
As of the time of writing, the fatuous responses have already begun to trickle in. Minister of Culture, Sports and Embarrassment Miki Zohar managed to say: “You’re right, Pep. Europe’s children will be next in line for the Islamist terrorist organisations.” It is reasonable to assume that in less than half a day, Guardiola will be regarded as loathsome and abominable in Israel. The talking points are already ready: City is funded by Abu Dhabi, it is connected to the Qatari money, Guardiola has the blood of the Inquisition flowing in his veins, not to mention that the Spanish prime minister is determined to establish a Palestinian state. He’s a hypocrite, probably an antisemite, and if you really look at it closely, then between us, he’s never been such a great coach, it’s Messi who did all the work.
