Gazal heads for Haifa
Thursday, July 1, 2004
Article summary
Defender Ravid Gazal has joined Israeli UEFA Champions League contenders Maccabi Haifa FC on a five-year deal.
Article body
Defender Ravid Gazal has joined Israeli UEFA Champions League contenders Maccabi Haifa FC.
New arrival
The 22-year-old has joined Haifa from relegated Maccabi Netanya FC in a five-year deal for a fee estimated at around €165,000. His arrival prompted the departure of veteran defender Avishai Zano. After being told that his first-team opportunities would be limited at Haifa, the 33-year-old has decided to rejoin his boyhood club, newly-promoted Hapoel Nazareth Ilit.
'Marvellous seasons'
"I had nine marvellous seasons at Haifa and would like to thank them for all the glorious moments I enjoyed," he said. "I am leaving an empire and joining my boyhood club with a big smile on my face."
Heading abroad
Another Israeli player on the move is Maccabi Petach-Tikva FC's 24-year-old left-sided midfield player Salim Tuamah who is joining Turkish top-flight newcomers Keisarispor. Meanwhile his Petach-Tikva team-mate Gal Alberman is to sign for Spain's Real Racing Club Santander.
