Ex-MLS and Israel international footballer dies aged just 31 after 'complex medical battle'

Israel international Gadi Kinda has died at the age of 31 following a "complex medical battle" in recent weeks, according to his club Maccabi Haifa.

His death comes just two weeks after the club revealed that Kinda has been hospitalised following his medical battle. Kinda earned 10 caps for the national team and joined Maccabi Haifa last year after spending four years at MLS side Sporting Kansas City.

His former team-mates had rallied to show their support and posed with his shirt before their clash with the Portland Timbers earlier this month.

After his death was confirmed head coach Kerry Zavagnin said: "It's still a raw emotion. Obviously in the club right now and the way that the group is taking it, in such a difficult way, it goes to show what he meant to all of us. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this difficult time. He was such an electric figure in our club and he's going to be dearly missed."

Kinda was born in Ethiopia, but moved to Israel when he was three. As a youngster her was part of FC Ashdod's academy before making his senior debut at 17. He later moved to Beitar Jerusalem before his career took over when he moved across the Atlantic to America.

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During his time with Kansas City he made 80 appearances, scoring 16 goals and coming up with 17 assists. Among his 10 appearances on the international stage was a clash with Portugal, featuring .

Sporting Kansas City said: We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Sporting KC midfielder Gadi Kinda. Our hearts are with Gadi’s family, his friends, teammates and all who knew him."

The MLS themselves put out a statement which read: "Major League Soccer mourns the passing of former Sporting Kansas City midfielder Gadi Kinda at the age of 31. During his four seasons with Kansas City from 2020 - 2023, Gadi was a fan favourite for his outstanding play on the field, his passion for the sport, and his spirit of kindness and his generosity to everyone around him. We extend our deepest sympathies to Gadi’s family, friends, fans, and everyone with Sporting Kansas City."

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