Businessman David Chisick Mediates Sale of Israeli Football Club Maccabi Haifa

Businessman David Chisick has been revealed as the intermediary facilitating the sale of the Israeli football club Maccabi Haifa. Owner Yaakov Shahar has engaged the investment bank Raine Group to find a suitable buyer for the team. Chisick, who has a background in high-tech, media, and investments, connected the club's management with the investment bank.

Chisick possesses extensive experience in international business and has significant ties to English football. He previously served as vice-chairman of Portsmouth in the Premier League and was a close confidant of Alexander Gaidamak, son of former Beitar Jerusalem owner Arkady Gaidamak. In 2006, Chisick, alongside player agent Pini Zahavi, was involved in the acquisition of Portsmouth by Gaidamak's son. He later became vice-chairman, playing a key role in the club's operations, including player recruitment and contract negotiations, contributing to the arrival of players like Sol Campbell, Andy Cole, and David James during manager Harry Redknapp's tenure.

The British newspaper The Guardian described Chisick at the time as the younger Gaidamak's main advisor and an influential figure at Portsmouth. He reportedly helped persuade player Lomana Lua Lua to sign a new contract. Chisick departed his role at Portsmouth in January 2007, a move that surprised Redknapp.

Beyond football, Chisick has advised and invested in technology, media, and entertainment companies such as Playtika, Minute Media, and M-Systems. He heads Chissick & Company, an investment and business advisory firm, and joined the international consultancy Teneo as a senior advisor in 2026. His experience combines international business with direct knowledge of managing a Premier League club, along with connections to club owners, agents, and business figures.