Maccabi Tel Aviv Faces Uncertainty Amid Poor Conference League Exit and Ownership Doubts

Maccabi Tel Aviv was eliminated from the UEFA Conference League after a 2-1 win over Lugano, but the victory was insufficient to advance. Despite briefly leading against ten men, Maccabi appeared disorganized and lacked depth, contrasting with Hapoel Tel Aviv's strong showing against Atalanta, which nearly produced a major upset. The article highlights the stark difference in European experience and ranking points between the two Tel Aviv clubs, with Maccabi holding 32.5 points compared to Hapoel's 5.5.

The summer transfer window for Maccabi Tel Aviv was described as a failure, with owner Mitchell Goldhar seemingly close to exiting or selling the club. The team sold key players like Said Abu Freih and lost Roy Revivo mid-campaign, while only acquiring Ester Sokler, who is not seen as a solution. Coach Kenny Miller's limited substitutions suggest a lack of bench strength, and the club struggles to invest due to the current security situation in Israel, which Goldhar reportedly recognizes as limiting financial returns.

The article criticizes the tactical use of Dor Peretz as a forward, noting his qualities suit a box-to-box midfielder role rather than a striker. Meanwhile, Hapoel Tel Aviv impressed by competing evenly with Atalanta, a Serie A team, but lacked a clinical striker to capitalize on chances. The scarcity of prolific strikers in Israeli football is noted, with many top talents moving abroad.

Looking ahead, the article predicts that squad depth will be decisive in the Israeli Premier League title race. Hapoel Be'er Sheva faces challenges defending their championship, Hapoel Tel Aviv needs reinforcements, and Maccabi Tel Aviv risks another disappointing season unless new players emerge. The ongoing suspension of matches in Israel further complicates progress for local players and teams, including the national team.