Top 10 Israeli Footballers of All Time

Israel has produced some remarkable footballers whose impact stretches beyond national borders and into Europe’s most competitive leagues. These players have served as ambassadors for Israeli football, displaying skill, passion, and determination on some of the world’s most prominent stages.

Whether it was breaking into the English Premier League, conquering European competitions, or dominating the Israeli domestic league, these athletes have written their names into football history.

This list of the Top 10 Israeli Footballers of All Time is ranked based on overall legacy, international and club achievements, consistency, leadership, and influence on future generations. While statistics matter, so does the impact these players left behind — both at home and abroad. Whether you’re a devoted football enthusiast or a curious newcomer, you’ll discover how Israeli football carved its place in the sport’s global narrative.

1. Yossi Benayoun

• Full Name: Yossi Shai Benayoun
• Position: Attacking Midfielder / Winger
• Active Years: 1997–2019
• Notable Clubs: Liverpool, Chelsea, West Ham, Arsenal, Maccabi Haifa
• National Team: 102 caps, 24 goals

As the most-capped player in Israel’s history, Yossi Benayoun stands as the definitive icon of Israeli football in the modern era. His journey took him from the Israeli Premier League to the elite stadiums of England, where he played for three of the Premier League’s biggest clubs: Liverpool, Chelsea, and Arsenal. Known for his elegant dribbling, precise passing, and football intelligence, Benayoun delivered memorable performances — including a Champions League hat-trick for Liverpool and decisive goals in league matches for both Arsenal and Chelsea.

His adaptability and flair made him a fan favorite, while his professionalism set a new standard for Israeli players abroad. Benayoun’s influence extended beyond the pitch, inspiring younger generations to aim for European success. His legacy is not only measured in goals and assists, but in paving the path for Israeli talent in the world’s most competitive leagues.

2. Eli Ohana

• Full Name: Eliyahu Ohana
• Position: Forward
• Active Years: 1977–1999
• Notable Clubs: Beitar Jerusalem, KV Mechelen
• National Team: 51 caps, 17 goals

Eli Ohana was a trailblazer in every sense, achieving European glory with Belgian side KV Mechelen by winning the 1988 UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup — a feat unheard of for Israeli players at the time. His performance in the final, combined with his stylish attacking play, elevated his status to a continental level. Before and after his stint in Belgium, Ohana was a hero at Beitar Jerusalem, where his goals and leadership guided the team to multiple titles.

Beyond his club career, Ohana represented a golden standard for what an Israeli forward could achieve internationally. His flair, composure, and technical brilliance helped him stand out during an era when Israeli football was still seeking global recognition. After retiring, he remained active in the sport as a coach and administrator, further solidifying his influence on the game’s future in Israel.

3. Haim Revivo

• Full Name: Haim Michael Revivo
• Position: Attacking Midfielder
• Active Years: 1990–2004
• Notable Clubs: Celta Vigo, Fenerbahçe, Maccabi Haifa
• National Team: 67 caps, 15 goals

Haim Revivo became a household name not just in Israel, but in Spain and Turkey as well. With his masterful left foot and dead-ball accuracy, he scored 21 goals in his debut La Liga season with Celta Vigo, dazzling fans with skill and creativity. His move to Turkish giants Fenerbahçe turned him into a cult hero, where he contributed to league triumphs and intense derby victories.

Revivo’s reputation was built on flamboyance, flair, and consistency. He played a key role in elevating the image of Israeli players overseas, becoming one of the first to be considered a genuine star abroad. Off the pitch, his charisma and professionalism made him one of the most beloved and marketable football figures Israel has ever produced.

4. Ronny Rosenthal

• Full Name: Ronny Rosenthal
• Position: Forward
• Active Years: 1983–1999
• Notable Clubs: Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Club Brugge
• National Team: 60 caps, 11 goals

Rosenthal made history as the first Israeli to win England’s top division, lifting the First Division title with Liverpool in 1990. His explosive pace and physicality made him a nightmare for defenders, especially during his early years in Belgium and England. While he is often remembered for a famous open-goal miss at Aston Villa, his real legacy lies in the barriers he broke for Israelis in the English game.

From scoring a hat-trick on his Liverpool debut to contributing in European matches, Rosenthal made his presence felt on big occasions. He set a precedent for Israelis dreaming of Premier League glory, and his pioneering spirit made him one of the country’s most important football exports.

5. Eyal Berkovic

• Full Name: Eyal Berkovic
• Position: Midfielder
• Active Years: 1991–2006
• Notable Clubs: Celtic, Manchester City, West Ham, Maccabi Haifa
• National Team: 82 caps, 14 goals

Berkovic was the midfield maestro of his generation — a player with exceptional vision, control, and passing range. His time in Scotland and England, particularly with Celtic and Manchester City, showcased his ability to dictate the rhythm of a match. He was instrumental in City’s promotion to the Premier League and formed lethal partnerships with strikers like Paolo Di Canio and Shaun Goater.

While Berkovic had a fiery personality, which led to some locker-room clashes, his talent was unquestionable. He is remembered for moments of brilliance that turned games around and for representing Israel with skill and pride across multiple clubs and countries. His football IQ and creativity made him an unforgettable playmaker.

6. Avi Nimni

• Full Name: Avraham Nimni
• Position: Attacking Midfielder / Forward
• Active Years: 1990–2008
• Notable Clubs: Maccabi Tel Aviv, Atlético Madrid (loan)
• National Team: 80 caps, 17 goals

Avi Nimni is synonymous with Maccabi Tel Aviv, where he became the all-time top scorer and a symbol of loyalty and excellence. His sharp eye for goal, leadership qualities, and knack for scoring in clutch moments made him the club’s heart and soul for nearly two decades.

Though he had a brief stint abroad, Nimni’s legacy is deeply tied to Israeli football. He lifted multiple league titles and domestic cups and was idolized by fans. His contributions were honored with a statue outside Bloomfield Stadium — a rare tribute and testament to his iconic status.

7. Tal Ben Haim

• Full Name: Tal Ben Haim
• Position: Centre Back
• Active Years: 1998–2021
• Notable Clubs: Chelsea, Bolton, Portsmouth, Maccabi Tel Aviv
• National Team: 96 caps, 1 goal

Ben Haim was a towering presence in defense, bringing Israeli grit to the English Premier League at a time when defenders from the region were rare. Under José Mourinho at Chelsea, he gained valuable experience in elite competitions, including the UEFA Champions League.

Across nearly 100 Premier League matches, Ben Haim proved himself a reliable and determined center-back. His leadership qualities carried over to the Israeli national team, where he was a consistent starter across multiple qualifying campaigns. His longevity and consistency made him one of Israel’s most respected defenders ever.

8. Itzik Zohar

• Full Name: Itzik Zohar
• Position: Attacking Midfielder
• Active Years: 1989–2004
• Notable Clubs: Maccabi Tel Aviv, Crystal Palace, Maccabi Netanya
• National Team: 31 caps, 8 goals

Zohar was known as much for his flashy style and technical brilliance as for his controversies and outspoken nature. He had a short but notable spell in the Premier League with Crystal Palace and was a standout performer in the Israeli Premier League throughout the ’90s.

With exceptional ball control and set-piece ability, Zohar entertained crowds and left defenders guessing. Though his international career didn’t fully reach its potential, his influence on Israeli attacking football and his media presence after retirement have kept him in the public eye.

9. Reuven Atar

• Full Name: Reuven Atar
• Position: Midfielder
• Active Years: 1986–2002
• Notable Clubs: Maccabi Haifa, Beitar Jerusalem, Maccabi Netanya
• National Team: 33 caps, 3 goals

Atar was the embodiment of creativity in Israeli football during the late ’80s and ’90s. His technical skill and ability to score from distance made him a constant threat in midfield. With Maccabi Haifa, he achieved domestic glory and became a fan favorite for his elegance and work ethic.

After his playing career, Atar transitioned successfully into management, including a return to coach Maccabi Haifa. His dual impact as both player and coach further cemented his place in Israeli football folklore.

10. Zahi Armeli

• Full Name: Zahi Armeli
• Position: Striker
• Active Years: 1982–1994
• Notable Clubs: Maccabi Haifa
• National Team: 29 caps, 10 goals

Armeli was one of the most lethal strikers of his generation in Israeli domestic football. A key part of Maccabi Haifa’s rise in the 1980s, he had a remarkable ability to find space in the box and finish with precision. His consistency in front of goal helped Maccabi secure multiple league titles during a dominant spell.

Though he never played abroad, Armeli’s contribution to the domestic game and national team remains significant. His sharp instincts and unassuming demeanor made him one of the era’s most respected professionals.

Honorable Mentions

• Beram Kayal — A consistent midfield enforcer with a strong presence at Celtic and Brighton.
• Dudu Aouate — Reliable goalkeeper with over 70 caps and extensive La Liga experience.
• Tomer Hemed — Powerful striker with spells in Spain and England, known for aerial dominance and work rate.

Conclusion

These ten footballers exemplify the growth and excellence of Israeli football across generations.

Their achievements — whether in the UEFA Cup, Premier League, or the Israeli top flight — prove that talent knows no borders. From Benayoun’s vision to Ohana’s pioneering triumphs, they’ve etched themselves into the game’s history.

Who would you add to this list? Share your favorite Israeli footballers or moments in the comments below and keep the conversation going!