Xulu, 29, was returning to Hapoel Tel Aviv for pre-season preparations after a short break at home but saw himself detained for hours and questioned at the Ben Gurion Airport upon his arrival.
Reports in Israeli media claimed that Xulu was in possession of a 'fake visa' but this website has since been informed that he had all the necessary paperwork and permission from the club to return amid the Covid-19 travel restrictions.
"A day to forget never thought I'll be treated this way when I'm only human, thanks for the love and encouraging words from the fans, unfortunately, I'm going back home," he wrote on Instagram after the incident.
A social media campaign soon followed which saw fans use the #FreeXulu hashtag, while messages of love and support poured in as teammates and supporters expressed their hope to see him return to the club.
snl24.com/kickoff understands that the players' representatives will be in contact with the club over the coming days in order to decide whether he fulfils the remainder of his contract this season.
However, after an impressive season where he featured 34 times in all competitions for the 13-time league champions, he'll undoubtedly be in high demand should he become available.
