Hapoel Be'er Sheva Owner Slams Football Association Official

Alona Barkat, owner of Hapoel Be'er Sheva football club, has launched a strong attack against Moran Meiri, the deputy chairman of the Israel Football Association and legal advisor for Maccabi Tel Aviv. Barkat accused Meiri of a conflict of interest, citing his dual roles.

Barkat shared clips from podcasts where Meiri discussed his positions. In one, Meiri acknowledged a potential conflict of interest, stating, "Can I serve Maccabi Tel Aviv in this matter? That's how it should be, you serve the same public that sent you." In another, he discussed Hapoel Be'er Sheva's perceived opposition to his initiatives regarding access to gatekeepers, courts, and referees, suggesting that club officials contacting association heads should face disciplinary action.

Barkat used Meiri's own words against him, quoting him saying, "The one who disqualifies with his flaw disqualifies," and urged him to resign. She argued that under proper corporate governance, a representative of a club cannot simultaneously hold a senior position in the football association. Meiri's statements, she contended, revealed that he prioritizes Maccabi Tel Aviv's interests while publicly claiming to serve the broader football community.