Bnei Eilat Launch Ambitious Project with Former Top-League Stars in Liga Bet
During the quiet summer transfer season, Bnei Eilat, a Liga Bet football club, is shaking up the Israeli football market by signing notable former top-league players such as Gil Itzhak, Gidi Kanyuk, Ofek Fischler, and Ben Yehizkel. The club also appointed Kobi Refua, who previously coached major teams like Hapoel Tel Aviv, Maccabi Petah Tikva, and Hapoel Kiryat Shmona, as its professional manager. Legendary goalkeeper Meir Cohen was named head coach.
The ambitious project is spearheaded by businessman David Vattori and his wife Natali, who will officially unveil the team and staff at a festive opening training session on August 2 at the city’s sports complex. The event will feature music, food stalls, and entertainment, reflecting their vision of elevating the club despite its lower-league status. Vattori, originally from Ashkelon and a former player himself, explained that the acquisition came after a conversation with Eilat’s mayor, Eli Lankri, who encouraged them to think big and purchase the club rather than just sponsor it.
Vattori aims to develop a professional football infrastructure in Eilat, including a youth academy, to prevent local talent from having to relocate to northern clubs. He estimates investing around six million shekels over three years, with an annual budget of approximately 3.5 million shekels, comparable to a mid-level Liga Leumit team. Refua signed a three-year contract worth 400,000 shekels per season, with luxury accommodations and a car provided. The club also secured Kanyuk on a three-year deal and Gil Itzhak, the top scorer in Liga Leumit, on a lucrative contract of 450,000 shekels per season.
The project emphasizes building a healthy team environment, with players expected to contribute to youth development and community engagement. Vattori appointed Oren Almog, an experienced sports CEO, as club CEO, and Lelo Anka, a local football icon, to manage the youth department. Legal advisor Amir Cohen stressed that the goal is not only promotion but also creating a cohesive and strong locker room.
Despite not being originally from Eilat, the Vattoris have grown fond of the city and its people through their business visits and are committed to upgrading the local football scene. The club’s official launch event is scheduled for the evening of August 2, marking the start of what they hope will be a transformative era for football in Eilat.
