Israel is not considered a soccer giant per se in Europe, but it boasts one of the most competitive domestic leagues. Over the years, the country has produced immense football talent, taking players to major European leagues. We look at some of the biggest names to play in Europe, some of whom have since retired and got into management, while others are still playing.
European leagues attract a big following, but if you’re thinking of wagering on the sport, it is always advisable to go through the Betway ZA registration guide first so you can understand the basics.
Yossi Benayoun
Yossi Benayoun, renowned as “The Kid” and “The Diamond from Dimona,” has had a notable career in football. Hailing from Israel, he not only captained his country’s national team but currently holds the position of sporting director of the national Israeli team. Commencing his professional journey at the young age of 17, he has showcased his skills and talent at esteemed clubs, including Maccabi Haifa, Liverpool, and Chelsea.
Tal Ben Haim
Tal Ben Haim, a proficient footballer from Israel, has made a name for himself in the sport. Throughout his career, he has donned the jerseys of renowned clubs such as Chelsea, Manchester City, Portsmouth, and Maccabi Tel Aviv. Known for his adaptability, Ben Haim exhibits his skills both as a right back and a centre-back on the field. In 2021, he was most recently spotted showcasing his talents for the Beitar Jerusalem Football Club.
Ben Sahar
Ben Sahar, an Israeli footballer, actively contributes to the Israel national team and Maccabi Haifa Football Club. Displaying his skills as a striker, Sahar played a significant role in Maccabi Haifa’s victories in the 2021 Israel Super Cup and the Toto Cup. Throughout his career, he has also represented esteemed clubs such as Chelsea FC and Hapoel Tel Aviv. Sahar played a crucial part in Hapoel Tel Aviv’s triumph in the 2010 Israel State Cup.
Manor Solomon
Manor Solomon, 24, is an Israeli professional footballer who currently plays for Fulham in the English Premier League, on loan from Shakhtar Donetsk in the Ukrainian Premier League. His parents, Ayala and Yossi Solomon are both physical education teachers who met while studying at Ohalo College. They named their son Manor, which means “a boom” in sailing, reflecting their shared maritime training. In December 2017, Solomon began his mandatory military service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Lior Refaelov
Lior Refaelov, a talented Israeli footballer, currently showcases his skills as a member of both the Israel national team and the Belgian football club Royal Sporting Club Anderlecht. Between 2004 and 2011, he proudly wore the Maccabi Haifa Football Club jersey, contributing significantly to the team’s triumphs in the Israeli Premier League, securing the title thrice. In 2015, Refaelov made a remarkable impact for Anderlecht, securing victory in the Belgian Cup by netting the winning goal during the final match.
Moanes Dabour
Moanes Dabour, an Arab-Israeli footballer, currently occupies the forward position for the Bundesliga club TSG 1899 Hoffenheim. In the 2012-2013 season, Dabour exhibited his prowess by netting ten goals in 26 matches, making a significant contribution to the success of Maccabi Tel Aviv Football Club. His efforts were instrumental in securing the Israeli League Championship, marking the team’s first title in a decade.
