Eyal Berkovich Nears Ownership of Israeli Football Club Hapoel Nof HaGalil

Eyal Berkovich, a former Israeli football star and experienced club owner and manager, is close to acquiring ownership of Hapoel Nof HaGalil, a club recently relegated to Liga Alef. Berkovich has previously served as owner of Nesher in Rishon LeZion and as a professional manager at several clubs including Maccabi Netanya and Hapoel Tel Aviv. The negotiations, first revealed by Sport 5 on July 9, 2026, have reached an advanced stage with key agreements made between Berkovich and Gil Baram, the influential figure currently managing Nof HaGalil. The deal is now in the legal drafting phase, pending final approval from Ronen Plot, the mayor of Nof HaGalil, who must authorize the transfer publicly and within the municipality.

This would be Berkovich’s third attempt to take over Nof HaGalil, with previous efforts failing due to the club’s financial deficits. Baram has committed to clearing all past debts, promising Berkovich a debt-free club, including control over the youth department. Berkovich is expected to invest around one million shekels annually through sponsors and personal funds, reducing the municipality’s financial burden, which currently exceeds three million shekels per year. Despite the club’s recent relegation after a turbulent season with three coaching changes, Baram remains as CEO, while Berkovich would assume ownership.

A significant figure in the deal is Nir Berkovich, Eyal’s brother, who would become the team’s coach if the agreement is finalized. Nir, who was dismissed from Hapoel Ra’anana last season and struggled to find a new coaching position, has previously worked with Eyal in various clubs. The arrangement would mark Nir’s return to coaching and reintroduce the Berkovich family to Israeli football management.

The negotiations have sparked controversy within Nof HaGalil, with some opposing the new ownership model and Baram’s continued influence. Opponents seek a different management approach without Baram’s involvement and have attempted to block the deal. However, Mayor Plot’s support is seen as crucial to overcoming these challenges. The club’s future in Liga Leumit remains uncertain, as Baram hopes for a league reprieve similar to a precedent last season. The coming days are critical as the parties finalize the agreement, which would mark Berkovich’s significant comeback to Israeli football ownership and management.