Agent Franck Belhassen Discusses Israeli Football's Challenges Post-October 7
Translated & summarized from N12 by baba
Player agent Franck Belhassen described the increased difficulty in bringing foreign players to Israel following the October 7th attacks, citing security concerns and external pressures. He also advised Israeli coaches to be more open to player development and provide greater confidence to their squads.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Player agent Franck Belhassen cited increased difficulty in signing foreign players for Israeli clubs post-October 7.
- Belhassen highlighted security concerns and family pressure as major deterrents for potential signings.
- The agent emphasized his satisfaction in changing players' lives, using Sheikh Keita as an example.
- Belhassen advised Israeli coaches to be less rigid and offer more confidence to players.
- He previously represented former French goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, who he felt didn't reach his full potential.
Player agent Franck Belhassen, who has facilitated numerous transfers of Israeli players to France, discussed the difficulties of bringing foreign talent to Israel, particularly after the October 7th attacks. Belhassen, a licensed agent since 2000, stated that while players and coaches initially express interest in Israeli clubs, the current security situation often deters them, with families and friends advising against moves due to concerns about safety and future career prospects in Europe.
He also highlighted the significant impact player agents have in Israeli football, especially in the current challenging environment, by securing high-level foreign players and creating opportunities for Israelis abroad. He mentioned facilitating moves for Israeli players like Itay Shechter and Eliiran Atar to European clubs.
Reflecting on his career, Belhassen noted that his biggest satisfaction comes from transforming players' lives, using Sheikh Keita of Hapoel Haifa as an example of a player whose career trajectory drastically improved, enabling him to support his family. He also expressed disappointment that former French national team goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, whom he represented, did not fully realize his potential.
Belhassen offered advice to Israeli coaches, urging them to be less rigid in their team selections and to provide more confidence and opportunities to all players, emphasizing that potential can emerge throughout a season. He believes that many coaches overlook promising players who might be performing well in lower leagues or abroad.
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