Dean David Open to Return to Israel Amidst Yokohama Stint
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
Israeli striker Dean David is considering a return to Israel in January due to his lack of playing time with Japanese club Yokohama F. Marinos. His high salary of around $700,000 net per season is a major hurdle for Israeli teams, despite the club's willingness to negotiate a transfer fee. David has adapted to life in Japan but is open to overseas offers or a move back to Israel.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Striker Dean David is considering a return to Israel in January due to being sidelined by his Japanese club.
- David's high salary of approximately $700,000 net per season is a significant obstacle for Israeli teams.
- Yokohama F. Marinos acquired David from Maccabi Haifa for about one million euros.
- Coach Steve Corica has reportedly kept David out of the squad despite his preseason participation.
- Major Israeli clubs like Maccabi Haifa and Maccabi Tel Aviv could afford a transfer fee but not necessarily his salary.
- David has adapted to living in Japan and would prefer international offers if available.
Israeli striker Dean David has not been included in Yokohama F. Marinos' squad for their last eight matches, including Saturday's 0-0 draw against Osaka in the Japanese league. This situation has led David to consider a return to Israel in January. However, his high salary of approximately $700,000 net per season presents a significant obstacle.
At 30 years old, David is reportedly concerned about his professional standing under coach Steve Corica, who is described as a strict manager. David has sought to understand his reduced role despite participating in preseason games. The Japanese club is unlikely to release him easily and intends to honor his contract, paying his salary until the end of the season.
A source familiar with the situation noted the difference in Japanese club mentality, where they are willing to pay high salaries and may only consider releasing a player if a substantial portion of their investment is recouped. This contrasts with European clubs often eager to offload contracts.
While Yokohama acquired David from Maccabi Haifa for a relatively low fee of around one million euros, his substantial salary in Japan could deter major Israeli clubs like Maccabi Haifa, Maccabi Tel Aviv, and Hapoel Tel Aviv, even if they could afford a transfer fee of a few hundred thousand euros.
On a personal level, David lives alone in Yokohama but receives frequent visits from family and friends. He has adapted to living abroad, having been in Japan for nearly two years, exceeding initial expectations. If attractive international offers arise, he would prefer to continue his career overseas; otherwise, a return to Israel remains a possibility given existing interest.