Former Israeli National Soccer Captain Bibars Natcho Retires

The Jerusalem Post celebrates the illustrious career of Bibars Natcho as he hangs up his boots after a distinguished 20-year journey in professional football. Natcho, a 38-year-old midfielder, has not only been a key player for Partizan Belgrade but also a trailblazer for Israeli sports, having previously captained the national team.

His career, which began in the youth academy of Hapoel Tel Aviv, saw him develop into a vital playmaker before embarking on a successful European adventure. Natcho's time in Russia with Rubin Kazan and CSKA Moscow, as well as stints with Olympiacos and finally Partizan, cemented his reputation as an intelligent player and a natural leader across multiple leagues. His achievements include winning the Russian Premier League and being the top assist provider in the Europa League.

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Sometimes in life everything works out exactly the way you wanted, sometimes everything falls apart.

However, Natcho's legacy extends beyond his on-field accomplishments. The Jerusalem Post emphasizes his historic role as Israel's first non-Jewish national team captain, a Circassian Muslim from Kafr Kama. This position placed him at the center of significant cultural and societal discussions within Israeli soccer, particularly concerning his personal decision not to sing the national anthem due to its religious lyrics. His career navigated these complex tensions, highlighting the diverse fabric of Israeli society and sports.

Natcho's journey from Tel Aviv to becoming a celebrated figure in Europe, and his unique position within the Israeli national team, makes his retirement a moment of reflection for Israeli sports. His contributions, both as a player and as a symbol of inclusivity, are recognized and honored, marking the end of a truly remarkable career.

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After more than 500 games and hundreds of goals and assists, my journey is coming to an end. I couldn't imagine myself playing anywhere else after Partizan. This stadium has become my home.