Former Maccabi Haifa Defender San Menachem Opens Up About Life After Career-Ending Head Injury

San Menachem, former Maccabi Haifa defender, retired from professional football at age 29 due to a serious head injury, as advised by doctors. In an interview with Channel 2000, Menachem recounted the moment he learned he could no longer play, describing the shock of being told he had brain hemorrhages and that continuing to play posed a life-threatening risk. The injury forced him to retire shortly after the birth of his son, a deeply emotional period for him and his family.

Menachem shared how he initially struggled with the news but chose to see it as a positive turning point. He promised his wife that in two years they would look back and recognize the retirement as the best thing that happened to them. He expressed gratitude for his past achievements, including financial security, fame, and championships, and embraced a new path in life.

He also discussed ongoing challenges from the injury, such as sensitivity to noise, difficulty with memory, and emotional triggers like a baby’s crying. Despite these difficulties, Menachem is learning to live with the consequences and is strengthening his faith as part of his recovery process.