Maccabi Tel Aviv Legend Alexander Polukarov Undergoes Leg Amputation Amid Complex Medical Condition

Alexander Polukarov, a legendary foreign player for Maccabi Tel Aviv and former captain of Torpedo Moscow, has undergone a leg amputation, according to sports lawyer Anton Smirnov. Polukarov, 66, played for Maccabi Tel Aviv from 1991 to the mid-1990s after a long career at Torpedo Moscow from 1980 to 1991. He made 319 appearances for Maccabi Tel Aviv, winning the Israeli championship in 1991/92, the Toto Cup the following season, and the State Cup in 1993/94. The exact cause of the amputation remains unknown, and the situation is described as complicated. Smirnov expressed sorrow over the news and invited anyone with information to contact him privately.

During his career, Polukarov also played for Maccabi Herzliya, Hapoel Jerusalem, and Maccabi Ironi Ashdod before retiring at Torpedo Moscow. After retiring, he served as assistant coach and sporting director at FC Moscow and later coached youth teams. Polukarov appeared 23 times in European competitions, including the Champions League, Cup Winners' Cup, and UEFA Cup. He was twice named among the top 33 players in the Soviet league, ranking third in 1990 and second in 1991.

This news has saddened the football community, highlighting the difficult health challenges faced by the former defender who remains a celebrated figure in Israeli and Russian football history.