Ironi Tiberias Player Describes Police Probe Into Club's Finances

Dozens of current and former players for the Israeli football club Ironi Tiberias were summoned by police on Monday for questioning as part of an investigation into alleged financial irregularities and double contracts. The probe, codenamed "Mirror Image," is being conducted by the Lahav 433 unit, which has already arrested four individuals, including Arie Kalmanzon, Miki Beitan, Eliran Hodada, and Yael Bar, on suspicion of economic offenses.

A current player, speaking anonymously to Sport 5, described the experience as "very disturbing" and "looking bad." He noted that the investigation felt significantly larger than a similar incident involving double contracts from the previous season, with police questioning players about the last four years. The player spent two to three hours at the Lahav 433 offices, where investigators reviewed his contract, bank deposits, and any benefits like housing or vehicles.

He stated that the players felt they were innocent and simply wanted to play football, asserting that they did not understand the financial intricacies of their contracts and that such matters were the responsibility of the club's management. Despite the ongoing investigation and the freezing of the club's bank accounts, the players received their last month's salary but expressed concern about the future, hoping not to have to find new teams in January.

The club's financial situation is precarious, with bank accounts frozen, raising concerns among players about their employment and the team's viability. The player emphasized that they are not criminals and are solely focused on their professional duties on the field.