"Anti-Palestinian message": West Ham against its fans' song for Solomon

The management of West Ham United sparked widespread controversy among football fans in Israel after issuing an official statement strongly condemning the song sung by the club's fans for Manor Solomon. During the season opener against Burnley, in which the Israeli scored an impressive debut goal, the Hammers' fans broke into a well-known chant from the stands that includes the words "I hate Palestine". The London club chose to issue a public statement in which they clarified that the words are unacceptable to them and defined them as offensive and contrary to the club's values.

The English club's move comes just days after the Israeli midfielder scored his debut goal for the team, a goal that gave the Hammers a temporary lead before the game ended in a disappointing 2:2 draw.

Solomon received much professional praise from the club's fans on social media for his ability on the pitch, but the club's management chose to focus on the actions of the stands and speak out against them decisively, something perceived by many as a surrender to political pressure and an unjustified attack on the player and the fans.

The club's decision to condemn its own crowd is causing much resentment, especially given the fact that it is a well-known fan song that has accompanied the player since his time in England. The very act of official condemnation by the club is perceived as outrageous conduct and a slap in the face for the Israeli audience and the fans who support Solomon.

Instead of backing the new signing and the crowd that cheered him for an excellent game, the West Ham management chose to align with political dictates and issue a statement that led to a wave of sharp criticism against the club's management.