Former Maccabi Tel Aviv Legend Alexander Polukarov Undergoes Mysterious Leg Amputation

Alexander Polukarov, a celebrated former defender for Maccabi Tel Aviv who played for the club from 1991 to 1994 and in Israel until 1997, recently made headlines due to the amputation of part of his leg under unclear circumstances. His player agent disclosed the surgery but stated he was unaware of the accident details and urged anyone with information to contact him. Since retiring, Polukarov has lived in Tiberias and spent the past 14 years managing a football academy in Russia, including a stint as the professional director of FC Moscow and later as deputy director of the Torpedo Football Academy until 2025. He remained actively involved in youth training, sharing his experience with young players. Less than a year ago, Polukarov appeared publicly in good health and confirmed he was still working, making the recent news of his leg amputation particularly surprising.