Yoane Wissa's Social Media Use Draws Fire from Premier League Legend

Published in Media and Entertainment on Saturday, August 23rd 2025 at 2:15 GMT by Sporting News
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Yoane Wissa, the Brentford winger known for his impressive performances on the pitch, is facing criticism off it. Former Premier League star and pundit Robbie Savage has launched a scathing critique of Wissa’s social media activity, particularly focusing on posts perceived as insensitive regarding Israel-Hamas conflict and subsequent calls for boycotts of Israeli goods. The controversy highlights the increasing scrutiny faced by footballers regarding their online presence and its potential impact on their clubs and sponsors.

Savage's criticism stemmed from a series of Instagram stories posted by Wissa in October 2023. These posts, which have since been deleted but were widely circulated online, expressed solidarity with Palestinians and encouraged followers to boycott Israeli products. While the sentiment itself isn’t inherently problematic, Savage argued that Wissa’s platform carries significant responsibility given his position as a Premier League footballer and role model. He questioned whether Wissa fully understood the implications of his actions and the potential for causing offense or division within a diverse fanbase.

"I think it's incredibly naive," Savage stated in an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live. "He’s got a huge platform, he’s a Premier League footballer, and he needs to be very careful what he posts online." He emphasized that while players are entitled to their opinions, they must also consider the potential repercussions for their club and sponsors. “You've got Brentford who have worked so hard to build a brand, to be inclusive, and you’ve got one of your players putting out something like this which is divisive.”

The situation has sparked wider debate about the responsibilities of footballers on social media. The Premier League itself has guidelines regarding player conduct, but these are often vague when it comes to personal opinions expressed online. Clubs typically advise players to be mindful of their posts and avoid expressing views that could damage the club's reputation. However, navigating complex geopolitical issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict presents a particularly challenging scenario.

Brentford Football Club has remained largely silent on the matter, issuing a brief statement acknowledging they were aware of Wissa’s social media activity but would not be commenting further. This approach is common for clubs facing similar situations – attempting to avoid escalating the controversy while also protecting their player and reputation. However, the lack of a more robust response from the club has drawn criticism from some quarters, with calls for them to publicly address the issue and reinforce expectations regarding player conduct.

The incident echoes previous controversies involving footballers and social media. Marcus Rashford’s outspokenness on child poverty was largely praised, demonstrating how players can use their platforms for positive change. However, other instances have resulted in backlash and disciplinary action, highlighting the tightrope players must walk between expressing personal beliefs and maintaining a professional image.

The complexities are further compounded by the global nature of football fandom. Wissa’s actions resonated with supporters around the world, some praising his stance while others condemned it. This international reach amplifies the potential for controversy and makes managing player conduct even more difficult for clubs.

Furthermore, the rise of social media activism has blurred the lines between personal expression and professional responsibility. Many young people, including footballers, are increasingly using platforms like Instagram to advocate for causes they believe in. While this can be a powerful force for good, it also carries risks, particularly when dealing with sensitive or politically charged topics.

The case of Yoane Wissa serves as a stark reminder that footballers’ actions, both on and off the pitch, have consequences. It underscores the need for players to be more aware of their online presence and the potential impact of their words. It also highlights the challenges faced by clubs in navigating the increasingly complex landscape of social media and player conduct. While freedom of expression is important, it must be balanced with responsibility and an understanding of the wider implications of one’s actions – a lesson Yoane Wissa may now have learned the hard way. The article from Sporting News also references previous incidents involving footballers and social media, including those involving Kurt Zouma and Mason Greenwood, demonstrating that this is not an isolated occurrence but part of a larger trend. The increasing scrutiny on players' online behavior is likely to continue as social media becomes even more integrated into the lives of both athletes and fans.

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Yoane Wissa's Social Media Use Draws Fire from Premier League Legend