Union top scorer Tai Baribo Rehabbing Injury in Israel amid Iran conflict

Philadelphia Union striker Tai Baribo, since leaving the MLS side on May 31 to join the Israeli national team, has been unable to return to the United States amid the conflict between Israel and Iran. Baribo and his family are still in Israel as he recovers from a calf injury. Israel’s airspace has been shut down to prevent more victims of the missile strikes from Iran.

Union, MLS — Image Credit: Philadelphia Union

Baribo Rehabilitating injury in Israel

Despite travelling with the aim of featuring in Israel’s matches against Estonia or Slovakia, Baribo was hindered by a calf injury. As a result, he returned to his home country for rehabilitation. Alongside his recovery, he also seized the opportunity to attend a U.S. Embassy meeting in Jerusalem to work on his green card application. Regardless of his absence, the Israeli national team won both fixtures 3-1 and 1-0, respectively.

Days after Baribo’s return to Israel, Israel launched a strike on nuclear and military sites in Iran. In return, Iran also sent missile strikes to Israel, leading to a barrage of strikes between both nations and inducing the closure of airports in Israel.

With his calf injury coinciding with the conflict in Israel, Tai Baribo is set to miss the next few games for Philly. As confirmed by Philadelphia Union Head Coach Bradley Carnell, the club isn’t sure when the Israeli forward will return to the club.

“We’re not sure when he’s going to return.”

As he remains in Israel, news and videos show him and his family members safe and sound, reducing concerns among the Union fanbase regarding the safety of their star player. Baribo has also been seen with the Israeli national team coach and the national youth coach visiting some kids who were victims of the attack in a hospital, according to Ben Steiner of FotMob.

Philadelphia is also monitoring their striker, releasing a statement regarding the club’s star.

“The Union are in constant communication with Tai and are actively working to bring him back to Philadelphia safely,” the club said. “With the airspace currently closed, the situation remains fluid, and we are exploring all alternative options. Our priority is Tai’s safety and well-being. We will share more updates if and when it is appropriate.”

With Tai Baribo unlikely to feature in the Union’s next few outings, the club will be hoping he recovers from his calf injury and the conflict between Israel and Iran ends as soon as possible, so as to have Tai Baribo back in the squad. In the 16 games he has featured this season, the Israeli has found the back of the net 13 times and will be looking to keep his position in the race for the MLS Golden Boot upon his return.