From Manchester United Trials to Bat Yam: The Untold Story of Haim Peretz
Discover the story of former Israeli football star Haim Peretz, owner of the Bat Yam restaurant 'Haim HaYafe', who reflects on his youth trials at Manchester United and his career.
In the coastal city of Bat Yam, a small and unassuming restaurant called "Haim HaYafe" serves as a vibrant cultural hub. Throughout the week, former players and coaches gather here to host a lively political and sports parliament, sharing nostalgic stories from the golden days of Israeli football while enjoying a lavish spread. Among the regulars are notable figures such as Gabi Lasri, Dodi Amiga, Moshe Cohen, Uri Sliman, Kiko Rachiminovich, Shoko Numdar, and many others.
The restaurant is owned by Haim Peretz, a former forward for Maccabi Jaffa, Hapoel Ashkelon, and various lower-league clubs in the central region. Once nicknamed "Keegan" in his youth after the legendary English striker Kevin Keegan, Peretz reflects on his trials at Manchester United, his journey through Israeli football, and a career that many of his peers believe could have reached much greater heights.
Roots and Early Beginnings
Peretz was born on May 12, 1971, the youngest of four children. His parents, Yehuda and Leah, immigrated to Israel in 1948. His father served as a cantor in a Jaffa synagogue, raising the family in a traditional home where the children were given the freedom to carve their own paths. Growing up near Jaffa's Red Field, football was an all-consuming passion.
His formal journey began at a local community center under the guidance of director Baruch Goldbreit and coach Moshe Cohen. Though initially training with Hapoel Tel Aviv, a coach named Leon soon steered him toward Maccabi Jaffa, where he officially registered as a player. His exceptional talent even earned him a brief call-up to the youth national team.
The Manchester United Trial
During a training camp in England with a Maccabi delegation, scouts from Manchester United invited Peretz and his peers for a month-long trial at age fourteen. Despite the promising opportunity, homesickness and his parents' insistence brought him back to Jaffa. Back home, he starred in Maccabi Jaffa's youth ranks alongside future stars like Itzik Zohar, Lavi Kuzinitsky, and Yossi Bilo, often playfully arguing over who would take free kicks.
Moving to Hapoel Ashkelon
Peretz's career took a dramatic turn when Maccabi Jaffa transferred him to Maccabi Lazarus Holon. During a high-stakes match against Hapoel Ashkelon, Peretz scored a brilliant goal in the first half, only to be substituted at halftime. He soon discovered that his brother-in-law had secretly negotiated his transfer to Hapoel Ashkelon during the break.
Ashkelon quickly became his second home. Traveling to training via Egged bus route 300, Peretz played alongside club legends like goalkeeper Asi Rahamim and Shoko Numdar under coach Jackie Dekel. Gabi Lasri, a former teammate, notes: "Haim was an immense talent who mismanaged his career. He could easily have played for one of the top four clubs."
Life After Football
After stints with Hapoel Bat Yam, Beitar Bat Yam, Hapoel Shikun HaMizrach, and Neve Golan, Peretz retired from playing. He earned a coaching certification from the Wingate Institute and transitioned to coaching children's football while working for the Bat Yam municipality. Today, alongside his partner Alona, he continues to welcome friends and football veterans to his restaurant, keeping the spirit of Israeli football alive.
