Israeli Footballers Anan Khalaily and Manor Solomon Join London Premier League Clubs

After being blocked from Serie A by the Italian Olympic Committee's review, Israeli defender Anan Khalaily has signed with Crystal Palace, a London Premier League club that won three major trophies last year: the Conference League, the FA Cup, and the Community Shield. Palace will pay 25 million euros to Belgian club Saint-Gilloise, making Khalaily the most expensive Israeli footballer ever. Khalaily, 22, has already played briefly this season for Saint-Gilloise but was left out of the latest match ahead of the transfer. The official signing is expected this week, with Khalaily eager for a smooth completion after his Italy setback.

Simultaneously, Israeli winger Manor Solomon is moving permanently from Tottenham Hotspur to West Ham United, also based in London. Solomon, 27, struggled with injuries and inconsistent playing time at Tottenham, which loaned him to Leeds, Villarreal, and Fiorentina. West Ham acquired him for 8 million euros, with Tottenham retaining 10% of any future sale. Solomon aims to find stability and regular playtime at West Ham, a club with a passionate fanbase and ambitions to return to the Premier League after recent relegation.

Crystal Palace has gained Israeli fans after unequivocally condemning the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2025, unlike the Premier League's more cautious stance. The club, managed by Pierre Sasz who replaced Oliver Glasner this summer, plays an attacking style that suits Khalaily’s strengths. Palace’s squad includes promising defenders and Senegalese striker Ismaila Sarr, but they face challenges after losing key players and must strengthen before the transfer window closes.

West Ham is undergoing management changes amid controversy involving majority owner David Sullivan stepping down as chairman due to harassment allegations. Despite this, the club has a strong squad for the Championship and aims for promotion. Solomon’s familiarity with the league and hunger to perform could help him secure a key role. Both Israeli players are embarking on significant new chapters in their careers in London’s competitive football scene.