Hapoel Petah Tikva Striker Injured, Club Pursues Loan Deal for Midfielder

Hapoel Petah Tikva striker Franck Riboulier will undergo an MRI on Sunday after suffering a brutal tackle to his knee during Saturday's loss to Maccabi Haifa. Riboulier reported severe pain and difficulty walking, leading club officials to fear a potential ligament tear. "How such an incident isn't a red card is incomprehensible," stated Hapoel Petah Tikva representatives. Coach Omer Peretz acknowledged the team's need for reinforcement, especially after the sale of "Chipionga" Songo, which generated 700,000 euros.

Midfielder Yoni Stoyanov, also a target for Maccabi Petah Tikva, reportedly prefers joining Hapoel Petah Tikva. Hapoel Be'er Sheva owner Alona Barkat is willing to loan Stoyanov without a transfer fee, provided Hapoel Petah Tikva assumes his full contract, which includes a net monthly salary of approximately 32,000 shekels plus potential bonuses.

Hapoel Petah Tikva is set to sign Hamido Keita on Sunday, who is expected to replace Songo. Meanwhile, players expressed surprise at Diego Arruy starting the match over Roey David, given Arruy's lack of match fitness. David, who came on as a substitute, displayed a strong performance and might return to the starting lineup, as could Shavit Mazal. Guy Badash did not play again and is not currently in the plans for significant playing time within the team's three-center-back formation.