2023-11-25 21:56:26
Legendary Israeli Footballer Avraham Menchel Passes Away at 88
Avraham Menchel, renowned for his graceful dribbling and precise footwork on the football field, has passed away at the age of 88. Best known for his time at Maccabi Haifa, both as a player and a coach, Menchel was a key figure in Israeli football during the mid-20th century.
Despite his elegant style of play, Menchel was unable to secure a championship for Maccabi Haifa during his time as a player and a coach. In an interview five years ago, he expressed his frustration at the lack of recognition for his style of play. He lamented the shift towards power over finesse in modern football, stating, “Today, there is too much power and less thought in football in Israel.”
Menchel’s football career began in Romania, where he honed his skills before immigrating to Israel in 1950. He quickly found a home at Maccabi Haifa, where he would spend his entire playing career. Despite facing adversity due to Haifa’s reputation as a “remote province” in Israeli football, Menchel represented the national team in 30 games, scoring seven goals.
Notably, Menchel experienced both triumphs and defeats on the international stage. He celebrated a resounding 1-2 victory over the Yugoslavian team, considered one of the best in the world at the time, but also suffered heavy defeats at the hands of powerful teams from Poland, England, and Italy.
After retiring from active play, Menchel pursued a career in coaching but ultimately found success in the insurance industry. Reflecting on his life, he emphasized that “football is not everything in life,” highlighting his commitment to his values and principles.
Menchel’s legacy in Israeli football is marked by his exceptional skill, unwavering dedication, and enduring impact on the sport. His contributions to Maccabi Haifa and the Israeli national team will be remembered for generations to come.
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