Eilat's Liga Bet Team Pursues Historic Signings to Secure Promotion

Bnei Eilat, a new project in Israel's Liga Bet (fourth tier), is making headlines with ambitious player acquisitions aimed at promotion. Following the signing of Gidi Kaniuk, the club is now negotiating with Gil Yitzhak, one of the top scorers in Liga Leumit (second tier) history, to join the team. A decisive meeting with Yitzhak is scheduled for June 29, 2026, with strong pressure from coach Kobi Refua to finalize the deal. If Yitzhak agrees, he would become the highest-paid player in Liga Bet history.

In addition to Kaniuk and potentially Yitzhak, Bnei Eilat has secured Ben Yehizkel from Kfar Shalem and is considering signing defender Ofek Fishler, who played last season for Hapoel Afula and has experience in the Israeli Premier League with Hapoel Haifa. The club is investing unprecedented budgets in its roster, signaling serious intent to achieve promotion to Liga Alef (third tier).

An insider involved in recent developments commented on coach Kobi Refua's career challenges, noting that recent years have damaged his reputation due to poor results and criticism in higher leagues. This has led Refua to recalibrate his approach in Liga Bet, emphasizing the need to recruit game-changing players. The insider warned that failing to secure promotion this season despite the record budgets would be a major embarrassment for the club.

Bnei Eilat's aggressive recruitment strategy and financial commitment mark a significant moment in lower-tier Israeli football, as the club aims to rise quickly through the ranks with a strong squad and experienced leadership.