Ex-Maccabi and Hapoel Tel Aviv Star John Paintsil Recalls Israeli Stint

Former Ghanaian international John Paintsil, who played for Israeli clubs Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Tel Aviv, reminisced about his time in Israel during an interview on an African podcast. Paintsil played in Israel between 2002 and 2006, and again in the 2012-2013 season. He stated that during his tenure in Israel, he earned $1,500 per month. Paintsil explained that his move to Israel was an opportunity to eventually reach Europe, and he felt he was a capable player even before arriving.

He recalled his trial with Maccabi Tel Aviv, where he was offered a contract after just one game because the club feared other teams would sign him. Paintsil described feeling comfortable in the Israeli league, receiving gifts from fans and management, and being surprised by the interest from Maccabi Tel Aviv. The club provided him with housing, a car, and his salary, which he contrasted with experiences in England where players are expected to find their own accommodation.

Paintsil noted the significant salary difference between playing in Israel and England, stating that he earned $1,500 per month at Hapoel Tel Aviv, but later at West Ham United in England, he earned £15,000 per week. This means his weekly earnings in England were equivalent to his earnings over two years in Israel.

He also mentioned that following the World Cup, he immediately traveled to Israel to pack his belongings before heading to London to join West Ham, indicating a swift transition after his international participation.