UEFA has initiated a case against Aral Şimşir, a forward for Danish Superliga club Midtjylland, for shouting political slogans during a Europa League match against Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv.
The match took place on October 3 at a neutral venue, the Partizan Stadium in Belgrade, and ended with a 2-0 victory for the Danish team. The 22-year-old Turkish player started the game, provided an assist, and was substituted in the 59th minute.
According to Ekstra Bladet, Şimşir shouted “Freedom for Palestine!” towards the Maccabi players. Representatives from the Israeli club have formally complained about the forward's behavior.
Şimşir is a product of the Midtjylland youth system. In the 2024/2025 season, he has played 11 matches in the Superliga, scoring three goals and providing three assists, as well as contributing two assists in three Europa League matches. His contract with the club runs until the end of June 2028, and his market value is estimated at 1.5 million euros, according to Transfermarkt.
