Beitar Jerusalem Owner Defends Coach After Heavy Loss

Beitar Jerusalem suffered a significant 3-0 defeat to Hapoel Tel Aviv at Bloomfield Stadium, a result compounded by the red card shown to key defender Luka Gadrani. Following the disappointing performance, the club's owner, Barak Abramov, addressed the team's struggles in a post-match interview.

Abramov dismissed concerns about coach Almog Cohen's lack of experience, stating that such questions are irrelevant at this stage and should be revisited at the end of the season. He acknowledged dissatisfaction with the team's last two games but cautioned against overly harsh criticism, emphasizing the need to build player confidence. "To say that everything is not good is to make a clown of oneself," Abramov stated, expressing belief in the quality of his squad.

He drew parallels between Cohen's appointment and that of former coach Barak Yitzhaki, arguing that success and failure should not be solely attributed to the coach. Abramov affirmed his commitment to Cohen's long-term vision for the team, which has a contract extending three more years.

Addressing the team's budget and transfers, Abramov highlighted Beitar Jerusalem's substantial budget of 79 million shekels, with 33 million allocated to player salaries. He asserted that the club did not sell players despite opportunities to earn 10-11 million shekels and that the coaching staff received all requested signings. "It is unfair to say that we did not strengthen. We strengthened and brought who we wanted," he said, confirming the club has funds for further acquisitions if needed, specifically for a defensive midfielder.

Abramov concluded by reiterating his faith in Cohen as a top professional and emphasized that the players are ultimately responsible for the team's results, whether positive or negative.