From the fields of Ein HaBesor to the grand stage of European football, Eli Madmon’s journey is a testament to the power of dreams, determination, and destiny. As a young boy, he dreamed of playing for one of the world’s top football clubs—never imagining that one day he would train on the sacred grounds of Atletico Madrid’s stadium, where the seeds of his ambitions were first planted.

Raised in the agricultural community of Ein HaBesor, Madmon was expected to follow in the footsteps of many and become a farmer. But at the age of nine, he made a bold decision: he was going to become a footballer. With no professional football infrastructure in his area, he navigated his way to the youth academy of Hapoel Be’er Sheva—the first step on what would become a remarkable journey.

Fate smiled on him when, during his time at the academy, a groundbreaking partnership between Hapoel Be’er Sheva and Spanish football powerhouse Atletico Madrid was forged. In 2018, thanks to the vision and financial support of the Idan and Batia Ofer Family Foundation, the two clubs launched a strategic collaboration aimed at developing Hapoel Be’er Sheva’s youth academy. The partnership would redefine Madmon’s path.

With the foundation’s support, world-class training facilities were built, and Atletico Madrid’s coaches introduced their methodology to young Israeli and Arab players alike—offering them top-tier professional and educational tools.

The academy experience is a crucial stage in a young athlete’s development. Everything they learn—technically, mentally, and personally—becomes the foundation for their future and helps them realize their potential. Looking back at this pivotal moment, Madmon reflects:
“When we began training with the Spanish coaches, it gave us a huge motivational boost. You want to learn as much as possible from them and make the most of every moment. Their approach to football brought change—it was thoughtful, patient, and focused on the smallest details, even if it meant staying after practice. They gave us confidence, and I personally felt this gave me an edge—not only as a player, but as a person.”

The partnership also offered a glimpse into the pinnacle of football excellence. Madmon and other selected youth players traveled to Atletico Madrid’s prestigious academy in Spain to experience firsthand how future global stars are trained.
“From the moment we arrived at the training grounds, you could feel it was Europe’s elite level. Players start their day at 7 a.m. with studies, followed by training, rest, meals, and more. Their schedule is structured from morning till night with full support to maximize their physical, mental, and professional development. I felt like I was at the top of the football world—and I knew exactly what I wanted to aim for.”

During this collaboration with Atletico Madrid, Madmon’s talent blossomed. At just 17 years old, he made his debut in the Israeli Premier League with Hapoel Be’er Sheva—a defining moment in his career. His journey continued as captain of Israel’s national youth team, leading them to two historic national achievements: the finals of the European Championship in 2022, where he was named one of the tournament’s best 11 players, and third place in the 2023 World Cup, defeating powerhouses like Japan, Brazil, and South Korea.
“I was proud to participate and contribute to these historic achievements. The partnership between Atletico and Be’er Sheva helped me reach where I am today and continues to push me forward to aim as high as possible.”

Madmon’s story is just one of hundreds of young talents who were given a chance to learn from the best, thanks to the unwavering commitment of the Idan and Batia Ofer Family Foundation. The foundation places a high value on youth development and is proud to expose them to transformative opportunities.
As Madmon perfectly summarized it:
“The foundation’s impact goes beyond football—it fosters personal and professional growth. I’m certain the entire youth department has taken the maximum from this project.