Israel U21 Coach Guy Luzon to Depart After European Qualifiers

Israel's Under-21 national football team coach, Guy Luzon, announced he will leave his position at the end of the current European Championship qualifying campaign. Luzon, whose team is currently second in Group G, expressed his commitment to the upcoming matches against Slovenia and Norway, stating his desire for his players to experience the European Championship, an event he has participated in twice as a coach.

Luzon discussed several players, including Oran Goren, whom he recently called up after observing his performances with Barcelona Athletic. He emphasized that selection is based on merit, not age. He also noted the promotion of Nikita Stoyanov and Said Abu Farchi to the senior national team, acknowledging that the U21 team's role is to develop talent for the senior squad.

Regarding potential additions, Luzon mentioned that Steifman might join the U21 team after the match against Austria, and Daniel Dapa, who has been finding his rhythm, is also in contention for a starting role if he proves his worth. Luzon also commented on players in Major League Soccer, preferring they play at the highest European levels but respecting their choices.

Looking ahead, Luzon reiterated his intention to leave after the campaign concludes, expressing optimism about the team's chances to reach the playoffs for the third time in history. He hopes his tenure will end after potentially three European Championships and an Olympic Games appearance. Despite his future plans, Luzon stated his current focus is entirely on the crucial upcoming matches, for which the team has been preparing for over a year. He also expressed a personal desire to return to coaching a club team, feeling a strong hunger for it.