#DeadlineDay: This young footballer’s name is Rabbi, but he’s not Jewish
Born to a Congolese father, young ex-Man City player may spark some interest among Jewish fans, but he isn't of the faith...
He’s one of the most promising young European football players. And his first name is Rabbi.
Rabbi Matondo’s name is likely to spark some interest among Jewish football fans. He’s not Jewish, though — his father is Congolese — and his name is pronounced rab-ee, not like the word for a Jewish clergy member. The name is not too uncommon in certain African countries.
Matondo, who is only 18 years old, made headlines Wednesday for signing a deal worth over £10 million to play for the German club Schalke. He has been playing for the prestigious Manchester City team’s under-23 youth team for the past few years, but now signed for German club Schalke.
Read more here about Rabbi’s unlikely rise from a troubled neighbourhood in Cardiff, the Welsh capital, to some of football’s biggest stages.
https://twitter.com/rabbi_matondo/status/1090714373742608385
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.






















