Beitar Jerusalem Optimistic Ghanaian Forward Eugene Ansah May Gain Israeli Status

Beitar Jerusalem is hopeful that Ghanaian forward Eugene Ansah will soon be classified as an Israeli player, rather than occupying a foreign player slot. This development follows Ansah's recent acquisition of a work permit, a significant step for the club.

Ansah, who scored in Beitar's recent victory over Hapoel Haifa, confirmed he received his work permit a few days ago. With this permit in hand, the club plans to apply for temporary residency for Ansah, similar to the case of Ali Mohamed. Beitar's CEO, Kfir Edri, is expected to submit the application after Yom Kippur.

If approved, Ansah would no longer be considered a foreign player. A previous attempt to gain citizenship for Ansah while he played for MS Ashdod was denied, but the club believes this new application, submitted after the October elections, has a better chance of success. They anticipate a decision by January.

The 31-year-old Ansah first arrived in Israel in 2017 and has played for several Israeli clubs, including Beitar Tel Aviv/Ramat Gan, Hapoel Ra'anana, Ironi Kiryat Shmona, Hapoel Be'er Sheva, and MS Ashdod, with a stint in the MLS in between. He joined Beitar Jerusalem this past summer on a two-year contract with an option and has become a key player, starting the last four league games and scoring two goals.