Maor Melikson Reveals Intense Pressure in Choosing Between Poland and Israel National Teams

Former Israeli national team player Maor Melikson has revealed the immense emotional and professional pressure he faced when deciding whether to represent Poland or Israel. In an interview conducted in Poland, Melikson detailed how the Polish Football Association contacted him about playing for their national team in Euro 2012, with both the coach and president expressing interest in meeting him. At nearly 27 years old and having not yet played an official match for Israel, Melikson considered the Polish offer, especially after a positive meeting and encouragement from his Wisla Krakow coach, Robert Maaskant.

The decision weighed heavily on Melikson, who described himself as an emotional person. He recounted crying in his coach's office, torn between his love for Poland, where he felt well-treated, and his birthplace and upbringing in Israel, where his friends played. His late father had also advised him to play for Poland if he hadn't yet represented Israel officially.

The situation intensified with the Polish media awaiting his decision. Overwhelmed, Melikson asked his coach to announce his choice to play for Poland, leading to anger from the Polish press who felt he avoided them. Despite this, Melikson ultimately felt a stronger pull towards Israel, driven by his childhood dream of playing for the national team and the presence of his family and friends.

Melikson also admitted the professional allure of playing in a major tournament like Euro 2012 and the financial incentives, including high offers from sponsors, that came with potentially representing Poland. However, he stated he couldn't go against his feelings and ultimately chose to play for Israel, despite anticipating negative reactions in Israel due to the controversy, even being called a "traitor" by some.

Reflecting on his career, Melikson mentioned receiving multiple offers after his club Valenciennes was relegated, including from Maccabi Tel Aviv for a significant sum and Legia Warsaw. He ultimately chose to return to Hapoel Be'er Sheva, a club he knows well, stating he has no regrets about that decision.