Maccabi Tel Aviv Plans Squad Reinforcements After Conference League Exit

Maccabi Tel Aviv was eliminated from the UEFA Conference League playoffs on August 27, 2026, ending their three-year streak of European competition appearances. The team, coached by Kenny Miller, lost to Lugano and will now focus on domestic league and cup matches with the goal of returning to Europe next season.

Despite the disappointment, Maccabi Tel Aviv is actively pursuing squad reinforcements, particularly targeting two foreign players: a central defender and a right winger. Currently, the club has eight foreign players on its roster, including Asante, Kamara, Sokler, Andrade, Blitz, Sissoko, Varela, and Nicolescu, which exceeds the allowed foreign player registration limit. To add the desired new foreign players, the club plans to release Jon Nicolescu and Cróvin Andrade, who are not in the coach's plans.

Additionally, Maccabi Tel Aviv is working to re-sign Israeli midfielder Gabi Kanikovski, who has reportedly agreed to personal terms. Negotiations are ongoing with his current club, Ferencváros, which has recently indicated willingness to sell due to financial difficulties and reduced revenues. Maccabi Tel Aviv is optimistic about finalizing the deal and bringing Kanikovski back to the team.

The club aims to strengthen its squad promptly to improve its chances in the domestic competitions and secure a return to European tournaments next season.