Tiberias Club Owner Addresses Players Amid Doping Scandal Ahead of Toto Cup Match

On July 26, Arie Kalmanzon, owner of the Israeli football club Ironi Tiberias, visited the team's locker room for the first time since the doping scandal involving several players and staff emerged. Speaking to the players and staff, Kalmanzon expressed confidence in the club's stability and future despite recent turmoil. He urged the team to focus on football and ignore media speculation, emphasizing full club support for those involved in the ongoing legal battle.

Kalmanzon highlighted that the absence of suspended players is not an excuse but an opportunity for others to prove themselves ahead of the upcoming Toto Cup match against Bnei Sakhnin on Saturday. He stressed that Ironi Tiberias relies on a united squad of veterans, newcomers, Israelis, and foreigners committed to the club, city, and fans. "We will not enter this season afraid or defeated," Kalmanzon said, promising a hungry and cohesive team on the field.

Behind the scenes, the club faces uncertainty as head coach Eliran Hodeda, technical manager Chen Sol, and four suspended players remain sidelined. Assistant coach Moti Krispil is expected to lead the team in the upcoming match. The Israeli Sports Anti-Doping Agency has yet to decide whether to file charges against those involved. Tomorrow, Ironi Tiberias will petition the Football Association's Supreme Court to annul the disciplinary proceedings.