Omri Dahan, a Maccabi Haifa player who spent last season on loan at Hapoel Ra'anana, publicly confirmed on Monday that he is the footballer arrested by Israel Police in a criminal investigation tied to a group from Migdal HaEmek. His name became public as the gambling scandal rocking Israeli football reached a new peak.
In an Instagram story, Dahan said he wanted to give his version and firmly reject the most serious accusations. He wrote that he regretted being linked to the suspicions, but stressed, “I have no connection whatsoever to claims of match-fixing or selling matches.” He said the allegations do not reflect who he is, adding that he has “never harmed a team” and has always acted with dedication, commitment and respect.
Dahan also apologized to fans, sports lovers and professionals for the distress caused by the reports and the connection to his name. He said he understands the seriousness of the matter, even if he does not accept the accusations, and added that he respects the legal process and is cooperating fully with all relevant authorities, in the belief that the truth will come out in full. He asked the public and the media not to rush to conclusions and to let the case proceed fairly and orderly.
He also described personal hardships he said he has faced over the years, including financial and family difficulties, but insisted that his private life is completely separate from the current investigation. Dahan closed on an optimistic note, saying he believes everything will be clarified soon and hopes to return to playing football, which he called what he loves most.
