Omer Dahan thanks supporters, says he respects criticism in betting probe

Israeli striker Omer Dahan responded publicly on Tuesday to the backlash he has received after revealing that he is the player at the center of a police investigation tied to a gang from Migdal HaEmek. Police said last week that, as part of the probe, a footballer from one of Israel’s biggest clubs had been arrested.

Dahan said he appreciated the outpouring of support. “Thank you for all the warm responses, I really appreciate the encouragement and support from people close to me and from others too. It strengthens me a lot,” he said.

He also addressed critics directly. “Thank you גם to those who chose to express criticism or a different opinion. In the end, the public understands and sees the information that is published. I respect every opinion and every response, even when I do not agree with it. Thank you to the Lord for everything, always,” he said.

A day earlier, Dahan had said he was the player in question, while denying the allegations linked to match-fixing and game manipulation. “I have no connection to the claims of match-fixing, selling matches, the things attributed to me do not reflect who I am and the way I have acted לאורך השנים,” he said, adding that he had “never harmed the team” he played for and had always acted with “dedication, commitment and respect.”