Israeli police have opened an investigation into a professional footballer playing in the country’s top division following allegations of sexual harassment and indecent assault. The complaint, filed on the evening of Tuesday, November 3, 2026, involves an incident that allegedly occurred during a private physiotherapy session at the player’s residence.
The complainant, an independent physical therapist not affiliated with the suspect’s football club, reported that the player initiated non-consensual sexual acts during the session. According to reports from Israeli media, the therapist left the residence in a state of significant psychological distress and sought medical attention shortly thereafter. The therapist has since provided evidence to law enforcement to support these claims.
Police Confirm Ongoing Investigation Involving Professional Footballer
The Israel Police confirmed in a formal statement that an investigation is underway regarding a complaint of a sexual nature involving a professional footballer and his private massage therapist. While authorities have not publicly identified the player or his club, they noted that the investigation remains in its initial stages.
Legal representatives for the complainant, attorneys Yitzhak Sapir and Shimshon Klein, stated that the incident has caused their client severe psychological harm, impacting both his personal well-being and his ability to continue his professional practice. As part of the ongoing inquiry, the therapist has reportedly submitted digital evidence to the police, including a series of WhatsApp messages sent by the player the day after the alleged incident. In these messages, the player purportedly apologized and requested that the therapist refrain from filing a formal complaint.
Defense and Claims of Extortion
The player, through his legal team, has denied the allegations of sexual assault. His attorney, Liran Zilberman, confirmed that while his client has not yet received a formal summons for questioning, the defense is prepared to respond to the allegations if requested by authorities.
In a counter-statement, the defense alleged that the complaint is part of an attempt to extort money from the player. According to reports, the player admitted to making a sexually suggestive joke during the therapy session but denied any physical sexual misconduct. The defense claims the therapist requested a financial settlement to resolve the dispute, an allegation the complainant’s side has not addressed in public statements.
Current Status of the Player and Legal Proceedings
The complaint was filed in the city of Rehovot, located in central Israel. While the football club associated with the player is aware of the situation, the suspect has continued to participate in team training sessions as scheduled since the incident, which reportedly took place in late October 2026. No criminal charges have been filed at this time, and the investigation remains open as police evaluate the evidence and testimonies provided by both parties.
Player Attends Training Normally Despite Police Investigation
Has the player been suspended by his club?
As of the latest reports, the player has continued to attend team training sessions as normal. The club is aware of the investigation, but no formal suspension has been announced.
What is the nature of the evidence submitted to the police?
The complainant has provided evidence including WhatsApp messages that reportedly show the player apologizing for his behavior and attempting to persuade the therapist not to report the incident to the authorities.
Has the player been officially charged?
No. The Israel Police have opened an investigation into the complaint, but no formal criminal charges have been filed against the player at this stage of the process.
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