The Israeli soccer community is mourning the loss of Maccabi Haifa midfielder Gadi Kinda, who passed away at the age of 31 on Tuesday following a prolonged hospitalization due to a serious medical condition.
The news was shared in the team’s WhatsApp group by team manager Gil Ofek.
“Dear friends, there’s no easy way to say this, to write these words. We are in shock, in pain – Gadi is no longer with us. We are awaiting official confirmation from the hospital and will update as soon as we know details regarding the funeral.”
His teammates were devastated on Monday afternoon, struggling to comprehend the loss of one of the most beloved and respected players in the squad. Just a month and a half ago, Kinda played his last match, helping the team to a 2–0 derby win.
The former Israel National Team player had been hospitalized for several weeks while undergoing treatment for a complex medical issue.
Roughly two weeks ago, Maccabi Haifa issued a statement revealing that Kinda “has been dealing with a complex medical issue in recent weeks.” The club added: “The player is hospitalized and undergoing a series of comprehensive tests. The club and the medical staff are accompanying the player and his family and providing them with full support. The Maccabi Haifa family wishes Gadi a full recovery and will be by his side at all times.”
As news of his condition spread, a wave of support swept across the Israeli soccer scene. Fellow players, fans, and club staff shared messages of hope and encouragement. A video circulated online showing Kinda in his hospital bed alongside Rabbi Shneor Guetta, capturing a moment of shared prayer and solidarity.
Israel National Team player Gadi Kinda died, aged 31
But on Monday, those hopes gave way to heartbreak after Kinda’s death was announced.
Kinda joined Maccabi Haifa in January 2024 after four seasons with Sporting Kansas City in Major League Soccer. He signed a three-and-a-half-year contract upon his return to Israel. In his first season back, he registered four assists and scored two goals.
This season, he added three more assists before making his final appearance on March 29 in a match against Hapoel Haifa.
Born and raised in Israel, Kinda began his career in the youth system of Ashdod SC and made his professional debut there. In February 2019, he was acquired by Beitar Jerusalem for €1 million (approximately $1.1 million), signing a four-and-a-half-year deal. A year later, he made the move to the United States, joining Sporting Kansas City in January 2020.
Kinda also earned nine caps for the Israel national team, scoring two goals during his international career.Kinda recorded 14 goals in 64 career MLS matches (48 starts).
“During his four seasons with Kansas City from 2020-23, Gadi was a fan favorite for his outstanding play on the field, his passion for the sport, and his spirit of kindness and his generosity to everyone around him,” MLS wrote on social media.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to Gadi’s family, friends, fans, and everyone with Sporting Kansas City.”
Sporting Kansas City posted a tribute to Kinda, saying: 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,” and Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes added a social media post of his own: “Praying for his family and friends!”
“Gadi was a role model,” said a club official. “He never caused a problem, never complained, even when he didn’t play. A gentle, kind man with a special charm. He was always smiling.”
Just last Thursday, in a press conference before the match against Maccabi Tel Aviv, veteran Lior Refaelov spoke about Kinda.
“This season has been so turbulent. Just when you think things can’t get tougher, this happens. It puts everything into perspective. Gadi is one of the most loved players in the club. His smile was his trademark. We prayed every day for his recovery.”
Kinda’s closest friends at the club included Din David, Dolev Haziza, and Omer Dahan. In his neighborhood of Neot Peres, synagogue members organized prayers and readings of Psalms for his recovery. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.