Israeli football mourns death of former chairman

Israeli football’s in mourning following the death of Itzhak “Iche” Menahem, who passed away last week having lost his battle to cancer, aged 75.

Serving as chairman of the Israeli Football Association between 2003 and 2007, he notably fought UEFA for their decision to force the national team and Israeli clubs abroad during the Second Intifada.

Current chairman Avi Luzon said: “Iche, my friend and partner for many years, was a man who was best known for the eternal smile on his face. He was a man who conveyed warmth, caring and boundless optimism. Iche was also a big fighter, on the pitch and off it. During his time as IFA chairman he fought for the right of the national team and the Israeli clubs to host their home matches in the country. He won and brought the smile back to all of our faces.
The IFA will find the deserving way in which to honour Menahem’s contribution.”

A former Hapoel Tel Aviv player, he made 72 appearances for the club between 1956-1962.