Hapoel Tel Aviv Players Criticize Club's Transfer Policy Amid Scoring Woes

Players within the Hapoel Tel Aviv football club have voiced strong criticism regarding the team's decision not to reinforce its offensive capabilities during the recent transfer window. The discontent stems from the team's ongoing struggles to score goals, highlighted by a disappointing 0-0 draw against Hapoel Haifa in their opening league match. The team has only managed to score one goal in their last four games, relying on late goals in cup competitions to advance.

Despite these offensive deficiencies, the club opted to release forward Shande Silva and sign left-back Yanic Lellindal from Dutch club Volendam. This move occurred even though Doron Leidner, the team's natural left-back, had started the season well. Lellindal, who was also a target for Maccabi Tel Aviv and can play in midfield, is primarily expected to strengthen the left side of the defense.

In the match against Hapoel Haifa, Hapoel Tel Aviv, under coach Eli Nativ, struggled to create scoring chances. Looking ahead to their upcoming game against Beitar Jerusalem, Emmanuel Boateng is expected to return to the striker position. Coach Nativ acknowledged the team's poor first-half performance, attributing it to a lack of focus after returning from European competition, but insisted that fatigue was not an excuse for the team's slow play.

Stav Touriyal, who missed a penalty during the match and is reportedly a transfer target for Lecce, faced criticism. However, teammate Doron Leidner defended Touriyal, stating that missing penalties is part of the game and that Touriyal contributes significantly to the team. Leidner also commented on Lellindal's arrival, emphasizing that competition for places is healthy and that he remains the team's natural left-back.