Seventy-eight appearances for the Israel national team define the career of Eyal Berkovic, a playmaker whose professional tenure spanned from 1989 until 2006. Born in 1972 in the moshav of Regba, he navigated a competitive path through the Premier League and Scottish football, eventually transitioning into roles as a television presenter and radio personality within his native Israel.
Early Success in Haifa
Berkovic launched his career at Maccabi Haifa in 1989. During a seven-year tenure, he secured league titles in the 1990–91 and 1993–94 seasons, alongside three State Cup victories. His performance during the 1990–91 domestic double and his recognition as the 1993–94 Most Valuable Player solidified his status, leading to his integration into the national squad.
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His move to English football began with a loan at Southampton in 1996, highlighted by two goals and three assists in a 6–3 win against Manchester United. In 1997, he joined West Ham United for £1.75 million, where he scored on his Upton Park debut. His stint at Manchester City, beginning in 2001, saw him form a productive partnership with Ali Benarbia, helping the club earn promotion with 99 points. He later moved to Portsmouth in 2004, where he played under Harry Redknapp before departing English football in 2005.
Scottish Football and Conflict
In 1999, Celtic signed Berkovic for £5.75 million. His time in Scotland was marked by a training ground confrontation with teammate John Hartson, for which Hartson was fined £20,000. Berkovic later spent the latter half of the 2000–01 season on loan at Blackburn Rovers, assisting their promotion to the Premier League. He eventually retired from playing in 2006 following a final season with Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Post-Playing Career
Following his retirement from the pitch, Berkovic moved into management and media. He served as general manager for both Maccabi Netanya and Hapoel Tel Aviv. He was also the owner of Hapoel Rishon LeZion. Outside of club administration, he has maintained a public profile as a television talk show presenter and radio personality.
Fast facts
- Born: 1972, Regba, Israel
- Primary Position: Attacking midfielder
- National Team Caps: 78
- International Goals: 9
- Notable English Clubs: Southampton, West Ham United, Manchester City, Portsmouth
- Managerial Roles: Maccabi Netanya, Hapoel Tel Aviv
- Retirement Date: 7 May 2006
Questions readers ask
Which English clubs did Eyal Berkovic represent?
He played for Southampton, West Ham United, Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, and Portsmouth.
What roles has Berkovic held since retiring from professional football?
He has worked as a general manager for Maccabi Netanya and Hapoel Tel Aviv, owned Hapoel Rishon LeZion, and served as a radio and television presenter.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player, association football coach and radio personality
