Former MLS star dies aged 31

The midfielder last appeared on the pitch back on March 29 in a match against Hapoel Haifa, in which the number six came on as a substitute. His absence from the squad in recent weeks had prompted quite a lot of concern among many of the club's supporters. Haifa revealed earlier this month that he was undergoing treatment for an unspecified but 'complex' medical issue. Despite hopes of a recovery, the club confirmed his death with a statement released yesterday (Picture: Getty Images)

Kinda, who played 160 times for his first club FC Ashdod, was a central figure during his time at Sporting Kansas City between 2020 and 2023, where he made 64 MLS appearances, scoring 14 goals. Known for his creativity and flair in midfield, he often played as a number ten but was equally comfortable drifting wide or operating up front as an unconventional false nine (Picture: Getty Images)

Tributes have poured in from all across the football world, with Sporting Kansas City releasing a message on social media that read: '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 club also paid tribute to him earlier this month, with players touchingly holding up his jersey before their game against Portland Timbers on May 10 (Picture: Getty Images)

Major League Soccer also acknowledged Kinda’s sad passing with a statement that praised not just his performances, but his impact beyond the pitch. 'During his four seasons with Kansas City from 2020 to 2023, 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 posted on its official channels (Picture: Getty Images)

Kinda returned to Israel to join Maccabi Haifa after his stint in the United States, continuing a professional career that began in his hometown with Hapoel Jerusalem and later Beitar Jerusalem. He earned caps for the Israeli national team and was widely respected for his work ethic and positive presence in the dressing room. Though born in Ethiopia, Kinda and his family emigrated to Israel when he was just three years old (Picture: Getty Images)

In a translated post, Maccabi Haifa wrote: 'Our goat is gone. Maccabi Haifa Football Club mourns the death of the team's player, Gadi Raphael Kinda, who passed away at the age of 31. The Maccabi Haifa family hugs the Kinda family and prays that they will not know any more sorrow. May his memory be blessed' (Picture: Getty Images)

As messages of condolence continue to arrive from across the world of soccer, both Maccabi Haifa and Sporting Kansas City have expressed their intention to honor Kinda’s memory in the coming days. 'We extend our deepest sympathies to Gadi’s family, friends, fans, and everyone with Sporting Kansas City,' the MLS said (Picture: Getty Images)