Footballer in Match-Fixing Probe Denies Involvement as Detention Extended

Israeli football was shaken on Sunday after police announced the arrest of a player from a top-tier club on suspicion of match-fixing, illegal gambling, and tax offenses. The player’s detention was extended by the Petah Tikva Magistrate’s Court until Thursday, due to concern that he could interfere with the investigation. A publication ban remains in place, and attorney Batel Sheriki is said to have insisted on keeping it.

According to the report, the player is cooperating with investigators and denies any link to the allegations against him. Police suspect there is evidentiary contact between him and the crime organization arrested last week in the same case.

People close to the player said the online reaction had already condemned him: “The internet has already convicted him, people should wait patiently. Many people will eat their words. He is a good guy who got caught in a situation and got out of it.” They added that he was in demand from many clubs before the arrest and believe he could soon return to normal routine with his team.

The investigation is ongoing, and a hearing in his case is scheduled for Thursday.