Ex-Chairman Reveals How Iconic Striker Hulk Nearly Joined Beitar Jerusalem

Former Beitar Jerusalem chairman Vladimir Shklar has revealed that the club was close to signing Brazilian striker Hulk during the team's dominant era under Arcadi Gaydamak. Shklar, who served as chairman during that period, explained that the deal did not fall through due to financial reasons, but rather a change of heart from the then-coach, Osvaldo Ardiles.

Ardiles, who had a successful coaching career in Japan, joined Beitar Jerusalem in 2006. He initially sought a physically imposing striker to fit his tactical system and identified Hulk, then a relatively unknown player in Japan, as a prime candidate. Ardiles had prior knowledge of Hulk's potential from his time in Japanese football and believed he could be acquired for a realistic sum.

Shklar confirmed that initial negotiations with Hulk and his representatives were positive, with David Dahan also involved in the discussions. He emphasized that the financial aspects were manageable for Beitar Jerusalem, especially compared to other high-profile signings like Derek Boateng, Jérôme Leroy, and David Aganzo. The club was prepared to make the transfer happen.

However, Ardiles later reconsidered his choice, opting for a more experienced player. He ultimately decided against signing Hulk, preferring Christian Fabbiani, whom he knew from Argentina. Shklar stated that Hulk was "on the shelf" and a deal was feasible, but Ardiles's change of mind led to the transfer being abandoned. Hulk went on to become a world-renowned striker, notably playing for Porto and Zenit Saint Petersburg, and representing the Brazilian national team.