Yossi Benayoun Weighs Coaching Offers Amid Family and Future Plans

Former Israeli football star Yossi Benayoun has revealed he is considering multiple offers to return to the sport, primarily in coaching roles within Israel. Benayoun, who retired as a player at 39 after a stint as professional manager for Beitar Jerusalem and later the Israeli national team, has spent the last two years focusing on his family and obtaining coaching certifications, including a UEFA Pro license.

His time as professional manager for the national team was cut short due to the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, which disrupted crucial Euro 2024 qualifiers. Benayoun explained that the team was forced to play away from home under difficult circumstances, ultimately missing qualification. Following this, he and the Football Association mutually agreed to part ways.

Benayoun also discussed his talented son's potential football career, noting that the boy has received offers from European clubs. This has led the family to travel extensively, exploring opportunities in Spain, Portugal, and England. While Benayoun is open to coaching roles, he acknowledges that securing a top management position outside Israel would be challenging given his current profile.

Reflecting on his playing career, Benayoun shared that he initially expected to finish at Maccabi Haifa but played for an additional five years. He also disclosed that a move to West Ham United in England materialized unexpectedly due to foreign player restrictions in Spain, where he had agreed to a long-term deal with a major club. Furthermore, he revealed a near-transfer to Liverpool after his time at Chelsea, which was scuttled by the club's last-minute signing of Craig Bellamy, leading him instead to Arsenal.