Kanikovsky Says He Considered Quitting Israel National Team

Gabi Kanikovsky, now in his first season abroad with Ferencvaros after leaving Maccabi Tel Aviv last summer, said in a rare interview that he once considered quitting the Israel national team. The 26 June 2026 interview was published in the liberal-religious Sabbath supplement "HaDor."

Kanikovsky said he is not planning a return to Israel, despite having two more years left on his contract in Hungary. He said he did not experience racism there, saying, "Absolutely not. Not even from fans of rival clubs. Everyone received me amazingly, and I am glad I came here." He added that in the previous summer there had been interest from bigger leagues, but some moves collapsed after fans protested against signing an Israeli player.

The midfielder described his season as mixed. He posted eight goals and five assists in all competitions, won the Hungarian Cup, and reached the Europa League round of 16, but Ferencvaros lost the league title to Gyor. "I am proud of my season," he said, adding that the distance from family and his wife has been difficult and lonely at times, including spending Friday evenings alone in hotel rooms before matches.

Kanikovsky stressed that he did not leave for Europe just to check a box. "I did not go abroad to tick a box. I am aiming higher, for the top leagues," he said. He also spoke about the national team, saying that when he wears Israel's shirt, "I feel it is my reserve duty," and recalled strained moments behind the scenes that nearly led him to quit. He said his brother reminded him that he plays for the country and for friends who fell.