Watching the Israel national football team evolve over the past few cycles has been a fascinating study in resilience and burgeoning potential. There’s a tangible sense that something is building, a new generation is finding its feet, and the future looks brighter than it has in years. It’s not just about qualifying for a major tournament—though that remains the ultimate goal—but about the quality of player now emerging and the strategic patience being shown. I remember a time not too long ago when the conversation was solely about grit and defensive organization, which are still core virtues, but now we’re starting to see technical flair and individual brilliance that can change games. This shift didn’t happen overnight; it’s the result of improved youth development and players testing themselves in increasingly competitive leagues across Europe.
The core of this optimism lies in the current crop of rising stars. Players like Oscar Gloukh at RB Salzburg, and Dor Turgeman at Maccabi Tel Aviv, represent this new wave. Gloukh, in particular, has that rare creative spark in the final third that Israel has often lacked. But for me, the most compelling narrative, and one that perfectly encapsulates the challenges and prospects of this team, revolves around the situation of Manor Solomon. His recent journey mirrors the broader story. I was reading an interview with a team insider recently about Solomon’s return from injury, and a quote stuck with me: “Justin is cleared. It’s just a matter of him getting his game back; he hasn’t played in two months. But I think the break should help more than hurt. He was forced to take it, and he really hadn’t had a break in more than two years.” Now, they obviously meant “Manor,” not “Justin,” but the sentiment is what’s crucial. That perspective—viewing a forced hiatus as a potential long-term refresh rather than a pure setback—is a mature one. Solomon’s explosive pace and directness at Fulham before his injury showed he belongs at the highest level. Getting a fully fit, mentally recharged Solomon back is like a new signing for the national team. His experience in the Premier League is invaluable, and at 24, his peak years are directly ahead, aligning perfectly with the team’s upcoming crucial qualification campaigns.
Beyond the headline names, the depth is improving. I’ve been impressed by the sheer number of players now featuring regularly in top-five European leagues or in the Europa and Conference Leagues. It might not be tens of players yet, but having even five or six competing at that level consistently raises the entire squad’s floor. The defensive partnership of Sean Goldberg and Miguel Vitor provides stability, while in midfield, the industry of Neta Lavi and the emerging talent of Eliel Peretz offer a good balance. What excites me most, however, is the attacking options. Eran Zahavi’s legendary goal-scoring record is a hard act to follow, but in Shon Weissman, and with Solomon and Gloukh creating, there’s a pathway to a more dynamic, multi-faceted attack. We’re moving away from reliance on a single talisman.
Of course, the path forward isn’t without its hurdles. The geopolitical situation inevitably casts a long shadow, affecting everything from hosting matches to the mental load on players. Furthermore, while talent is emerging, converting that into consistent results on the international stage is the next, and hardest, step. The Nations League has been a decent proving ground, but the real test comes in the European Championship qualifiers. The last campaign saw them finish a respectable third in a group with Switzerland and Romania, amassing around 11 points if I recall correctly—a solid foundation but not quite enough. The next cycle will demand more. The key, in my view, is for the Israeli Football Association to maintain a long-term vision. They must continue to foster the pipeline of talent and create a stable environment for the manager, currently Alon Hazan, to build his project. Chopping and changing tactics or leadership with every setback would stifle this promising generation.
So, what are the realistic future prospects? I’m cautiously optimistic. The goal has to be qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup or UEFA Euro 2028. With the expansion of the Euros to 24 teams, the door is slightly more ajar. I believe this team has the quality to be in the mix for a playoff spot, at the very least. It will require key players staying healthy—the Solomon scenario is a prime example—and a few younger players making the leap to the next level. The blend of experienced campaigners like Bibras Natcho with the fearless energy of the new stars could be potent. From my perspective, the most significant change is in the mentality; there’s a belief now that they can go toe-to-toe with Europe’s mid-tier nations and win, not just scrape a draw. That shift is everything.
In conclusion, the rising stars of Israeli football are not just fleeting talents; they signal a systemic improvement. The narrative is changing from one of hopeful defiance to one of expected competence and emerging ambition. The reference to Solomon’s “forced break” being a potential blessing is a metaphor for the team itself. Sometimes, periods of struggle and recalibration lay the groundwork for a stronger comeback. The infrastructure is better, the players are technically superior, and the horizon is filled with opportunity. It’s an exciting time to follow the blue and white. They may not be contenders for a continental title just yet, but they are undoubtedly a team on the rise, and I, for one, can’t wait to see how high this new generation can climb. The journey itself will be worth watching.
