Former Spanish Soccer Star Jota Converts to Islam, Inspired by Kuwaiti Friend

José Ignacio Peleteiro, alias Jota, 32, converted to Islam after learning about Islam thanks to his 11-year-old friend, Faisal Buresli, a former Kuwaiti international whose family shines through exemplarity. In the video he posted on social media, we see him reciting the Shahada, the Islamic profession of faith. "I feel very happy and strong. I’m living the best period of my life. I love his family [Buresli’s family] so much," Jota said in an interview with Al Qabas. He added: "I want to pass on to my family and future generations the customs and traditions I have seen in my friend Buresli. They have changed my life." Buresli, for his part, says that Jota had decided to go to Kuwait in 2023 to become familiar with Kuwaiti society. "Then, two months ago, he talked to me and told me of his desire to convert. I didn’t expect that from him, so I was surprised," he added.

Jota played for Celta Vigo (2010), Eibar and Alaves in Spain, and Brentford, Birmingham City (2014 to 2017) and Aston Villa (between 2019-2020) in England. With SD Eibar, he was crowned Spanish second division champion in 2014. In 2021, the Spanish midfielder played as a midfielder for Deportivo Alavés. While he was about to sign with a team in the Saudi championship in October 2022, he decided to retire.