Israeli winger Manor Solomon is embarking on a new chapter in his career after joining Villarreal on a season-long loan from Tottenham Hotspur.
The move came after a last-minute collapse of a loan to Crystal Palace, leaving Villarreal to move quickly while the Spanish transfer window remained open.
Solomon, 25, first made waves in Israel with Maccabi Petah Tikva before moving to Shakhtar Donetsk in 2019, becoming the youngest Israeli to sign for the club. In Ukraine, he flourished, winning two league titles and making his mark in Europe with goals against the likes of Manchester City and Real Madrid. His fearless attacking style earned him recognition as one of Israel’s brightest footballing talents.
After leaving Shakhtar due to the conflict in Ukraine, Solomon joined Fulham on loan for the 2022/23 Premier League season, where he made an immediate impact, scoring five goals in five consecutive games. Tottenham secured his signature in 2023, but injuries and competition limited his appearances. Solomon managed just six appearances for Spurs, failing to gain a consistent foothold under manager Ange Postecoglou.
A loan to Leeds United the following season revitalized his career, as he helped the club win the Championship with 10 goals and 13 assists, playing a key role in its promotion.
Despite that success, Spurs opted to move him on again for more regular top-flight experience.
Solomon's role in Israeli soccer
On the international stage, Solomon has been Israel’s attacking linchpin since 2018, earning over 40 caps and scoring crucial goals in UEFA Nations League and European Championship qualifiers. His pace, dribbling, and ability to unlock defenses have made him Israel’s most influential attacking player of his generation.
At Villarreal, the Yellow Submarine hope Solomon will bring width, creativity, and goals as they compete in La Liga and the Champions League. For Solomon, it’s a chance to re-establish himself at the highest level of European soccer and continue representing Israeli talent abroad.