Eyal Berkovic Recounts Antisemitic Abuse in Football Dressing Rooms

Former Israeli football star Eyal Berkovic revealed on Saturday the intense antisemitism he faced during his playing career, particularly during his time at Manchester City in the 1990s. Berkovic, speaking on his show on Israel's Channel 13, described being the only Jewish player on a team with at least ten Muslim players during a period of heightened terrorist attacks. He recounted instances where teammates blamed him for bombings, stating, "When you entered the locker room, they would tell me the attacks were because of us. Park Hotel is because of us." Berkovic described frequent arguments with these teammates, including confrontations over playing time when a star player, who occupied Berkovic's position, was benched.

Berkovic also drew a parallel to the animosity he experienced at Celtic Football Club, suggesting that the club's predominantly Irish fanbase's hatred for Israel extended to him. He recalled an Irish coach at Celtic who also expressed negative sentiments towards Israelis. These experiences, Berkovic stated, were the worst part of his football career, overshadowing the competitive drive on the field. His comments came amid controversy surrounding the Ireland national football team's decision to play against Israel, which was initially postponed but later confirmed.