A prominent goalscorer in Major League Soccer and his family have found themselves stranded in Israel since hostilities erupted between the country and Iran.
Philadelphia Union forward Tai Baribo has been unable to return to the United States due to the closure of Israeli airports, as reported by local sources.
While it’s uncertain where exactly Baribo is staying in Israel, the Union has mentioned that they are in “constant communication” with him. They noted that his return is still “fluid” given the ongoing closure of Israeli airspace.
Israel’s main international airports are currently shut down amid rising tensions with Iran.
The club stated, “We are actively working to safely bring him back to Philadelphia. With the airspace closed, the situation remains fluid, and we are exploring all alternative options. Our main priorities are Tai’s safety and well-being.” They promised to provide updates when they can.
Baribo has been away from the Union since May 31, participating in international matches with the Israeli national team, including World Cup qualifiers and friendlies in June.
He recently dealt with a calf injury that kept him out of two international games. This led him back to Israel to handle his green card application, aimed at rehabilitating the injury and attending meetings at the US Embassy in Jerusalem.
Pennsylvania football writer Jose Roberto Nunez shared Instagram Stories by Linoy Balev, Baribo’s wife, which capture their current situation in Israel. One post included a photo with the caption: “This time it was a few minutes from us. Another crazy night. Take care of yourself.”
Balev also shared a video showing Baribo with others sheltered in a windowless room.
On the pitch, Baribo is leading the MLS Golden Boot race, with 13 goals in 13 matches, the last of which came on May 24 in a thrilling 3-3 draw against Inter Miami.
