Sergey Kandaurov Midfielder Date of Birth: 02.12.1972 Country: Ukraine

1. Biography of Sergey Kandaurov
2. Successful Career in Israel
3. Move to Europe
4. Later Career and Legal Battles
5. Final Years and Retirement

Biography of Sergey Kandaurov

Sergey Kandaurov, a midfielder, established himself as a promising player during Soviet times. In 1989, he won the European Championship as part of the Soviet junior team. He then played for Kharkiv's "Metalist" team, where he caught the attention of Maccabi Haifa coach Giora Spiegel in 1993.

Successful Career in Israel

Kandaurov quickly made an impact, showcasing his aggressive and goal-scoring style of play. He scored 10 goals in 35 games (plus 6 goals in European competitions) and helped Maccabi Haifa win the Israeli championship. In the 94/95 season, he scored 8 goals in 25 matches (plus 1 goal in Europe), and Maccabi Haifa won the silver medal and the Israeli Cup. Kandaurov was named the season's best foreign player.

In the following seasons, Kandaurov continued to excel, scoring 11 goals in 23 games (plus 4 goals in European competitions) and helping Maccabi Haifa secure another silver medal. As the leader of the team, he played a crucial role in their title pursuits. However, despite his efforts, the team could only achieve a 5th place finish in the 96/97 season.

Move to Europe

In the 97/98 season, Kandaurov's performance caught the attention of European giants, including Portugal's Benfica. He agreed to join Benfica, and the transfer fee reached 1 million dollars. In his first season, the club finished second and qualified for the Champions League. Despite the higher level of competition in the Portuguese league, Kandaurov gradually became a key player and attracted the attention of the Ukrainian national team.

Later Career and Legal Battles

After Graham Souness left for Blackburn, there were rumors of Kandaurov joining the club, but the relationship did not work out. He also faced a setback when an infection was introduced into his knee by the team doctor. Although the doctor was eventually dismissed, Kandaurov needed time to recover.

He received a contract extension offer from Benfica, but he was tempted by Aston Villa's three-year contract offer. However, the club president changed his mind, leaving Kandaurov without a club for half a year. He trained with Leeds, Birmingham, and Everton, but eventually decided to return to his family in Kharkiv and help Metalist.

After the season, Maccabi Haifa expressed interest in signing him, but they had already exceeded their foreign player limit. He then joined the modest MS Ashdod (12th place in the 01/02 season). Simultaneously, Kandaurov engaged in legal battles with Benfica over unpaid wages.

Final Years and Retirement

Kandaurov's second stint in Israeli football was not as successful. He struggled to regain his form and only played 20 games, scoring one goal. He had the opportunity to stay with the team, which was financed by his former teammate Haim Revivo, but he declined due to the unstable situation in Israel.

He went on trial with Premier League newcomer Portsmouth but was ultimately not chosen over more renowned players like Paul Merson. During his vacation in Portugal, representatives from Portuguese first division club Felgueiras approached him and offered to help resolve his financial issues with Benfica. He signed a one-year contract with them but returned home to Kharkiv after playing only two matches.

Kandaurov's career ended prematurely due to injuries and missed opportunities. Nevertheless, he achieved significant success, especially during his time in Israel, winning all the local tournaments with Maccabi Haifa. He was the first and only Ukrainian player to make the transition from the Israeli league to a prominent European club. In Benfica, he played 81 matches and scored 13 goals, including a memorable long-range strike against Sporting from 35 meters.

Although his career could have been more illustrious, Kandaurov should be proud of his achievements. He made a significant impact in the Israeli and Portuguese leagues and left a lasting impression on the football world.