Gavin Bazunu made headlines this week after pulling out of the highly controversial Ireland vs Israel football match on moral grounds, and the goal keeper likely leant on the woman he loves in the aftermath of the difficult decision.

It was reported that the 24-year-old was feeling ‘low’ in the aftermath, with rumours swirling that some team members were giving him a hard time. However, manager Hallgrímsson said that ‘nobody was questioning’ his choice and that the team is looking after his wellbeing.

So, who is Gavin Bazunu and what is his life like at home with his fiancée, Paige?

Who is he

Gavin was born and raised in Dublin, growing up in the southside suburb of Firhouse. He is Irish-Nigerian; his mum, Cara Farrelly, hails from Ireland while his dad, Green Bazunu, moved over from Lagos, Nigeria.

Popping the question

Gavin pulled off a surprise proposal in March 2026, getting down on one knee in front of his longtime love, Paige Millett.

The pro goal keeper pulled off an elaborate surprise for his love, inviting her to a private dinner where he was waiting for her by a candlelit path at a table for two.

The ceiling was decorated with balloons while the white table cloth was adorned with rose petals in the black and white video, which the couple shared on social media. They opted to play Lord Huron’s The Night We Met over the romantic moment.

Paige wore her blonde hair straight and opted for a sleek black outfit for the special occasion. People flocked to congratulate the couple in the comment section, including former Ireland player James McClean, who penned: ‘Class, congrats you two.’

His fiancée

Paige works as a physiotherapist and also teaches Pilates. Her job has played a massive role in Gavin’s football career, as she has helped him recover from injury.

When Gavin has faced long recovery periods, the two have practiced Pilates together to keep him moving. He has previously gushed over her, crediting her for getting him through an injury.

Life together

Paige, who also hails from Dublin, has relocated with Gavin several times as he moves club, including his current move to Bolton Wanderers in Greater Manchester.

The couple shares their home with two young dogs that they appear to adore; a German Shepherd named Apollo and a Dobermann named Nova.