Dor Micha Signs Historic Two-Year Deal with M.S. Ashdod in Second Division

Dor Micha surprised Israeli football by signing a two-year contract with M.S. Ashdod, a club competing in the Liga Leumit, Israel's second division. This marks the first time in his career that Micha, who has played for top Israeli teams and won titles, will compete outside the premier league. The club sees him as a central figure around whom coach Jacky Ben Zaken plans to build the team.

The signing followed intense negotiations lasting over two weeks, with Ashdod showing serious commitment. Micha sought a contract longer than one season and had offers from Hapoel Ramat Gan and Hapoel Haifa. Although Bnei Yehuda expressed interest and was willing to offer a lucrative deal publicly, no practical progress was made. Ultimately, the final contenders were Hapoel Ramat Gan and M.S. Ashdod.

A key factor in Micha's decision was the influence of his close friend and Ashdod star, Roy Gordana, who convinced him of the club's seriousness and the important role he would play. Jacky Ben Zaken authorized a substantial financial offer, unprecedented for the Liga Leumit, with Micha set to earn approximately 200,000 euros net per season, equivalent to about 60,000 shekels net per month. This salary far exceeds the league's typical top earners, who made around 35,000 shekels monthly last season.

In addition to the salary, Micha will receive a car allowance and other bonuses. While Ashdod has yet to appoint a coach and its league status remains uncertain due to the situation with Tiberias, Micha is expected to be a cornerstone of the team alongside Gordana. This signing is notable given Micha's profile and the rarity of such contracts in the second division.