Mitch Goldhar's Silence Fuels Speculation Over Maccabi Tel Aviv Future

Speculation is mounting regarding the commitment of Mitch Goldhar, owner of Maccabi Tel Aviv football club, to the team, with many signs pointing to a severe crisis. The previous season was marked by significant losses, including to rivals Hapoel Haifa and Beitar Jerusalem, and embarrassing defeats in European competitions. Despite these setbacks, the team managed to win the State Cup through a momentary surge.

The current discussion centers on Goldhar's absence and apparent disengagement. The article criticizes the club's management and player acquisitions from the past season, which strained the budget and hampered the team's performance. It questions whether Goldhar has grown tired of the project or is no longer invested as an owner, suggesting his vision has not materialized.

Furthermore, the piece argues that Goldhar's lack of investment, particularly in failing to secure qualification for European group stages by not appointing a professional CEO or investing significantly in players, indicates a lack of desire. The article also points to the dismissals of former managers Jordi Cruyff and Patrick van Leeuwen as missteps, with Goldhar's representative, Jack Angelides, allegedly influencing these decisions.

Goldhar's reluctance to invest in new players, both foreign and domestic, during the last January transfer window and in preparation for the current season is highlighted. His perceived disregard for the fans, by not communicating or showing presence, is also criticized. The article dismisses the excuse that an 11-hour flight is too difficult for a billionaire using a private jet as embarrassing.

The contract extension for Dor Peretz is cited as an example of poor management, suggesting Peretz is not a championship-caliber player and that his increased goal-scoring is a symptom of deeper professional issues within the team, rather than a sign of investment. The article also notes that if midfielder Kanishkovsky joins a rival team instead of Maccabi Tel Aviv, it could lead to significant fan unrest. The role of Jack Angelides, described as a junior banker from Cyprus and a former chairman of a Greek club, is scrutinized, with the article claiming Maccabi only succeeded when he was not in control.