Zuares returns to the helm in Israel

The 50-year old assumes the presidency of the IFA for the second time, having held the post for a four-month period from October 2018. He will serve a four-year term.

Born in 1972 in Petah Tikva, Zuares played in Maccabi Petah Tikva’s youth teams. He would also serve as chairman of the club, and went on to found his own computer import company.

Speaking after his election, Zuares noted that relatively few Israeli footballers were playing in European teams. “We must seek to change that,” he said. “We will erect new training facilities for youth talents.”

Zuares also spoke of his plans for women’s football in Israel. “I feel that, unlike other countries, our women’s football is standing still,” he reflected. “Resources must be distributed differently, and we must strive for equal conditions.”

The new IFA president expressed his will to help the national team make progress by developing better ways to train players and creating new infrastructures, facilities and conditions. “I am not afraid of any challenge,” Zuares emphasised.