On-Loan Midfielder Ilai Hagag Vows Loyalty to Beitar Jerusalem

Ilai Hagag, currently on loan to Bnei Sakhnin, has expressed his strong desire to return to his parent club, Beitar Jerusalem. Speaking ahead of Sakhnin's match against Beitar, Hagag stated, "I belong to Beitar, I want to return there." He added that if he scores against Beitar, he will not celebrate the goal out of respect for his parent club.

Bnei Sakhnin is set to host Beitar Jerusalem on Monday, with an estimated 3,000 fans expected to attend. The team is aiming for their first win of the season under new coach Yossi Abukasis. Despite practicing with a four-man defense, the team is expected to field three center-backs, even with Udi Dahan unavailable for the match against Beitar. Maron Gantos, Iyad Abu Abid, and Amit Kardi will form the central defense, with Ahmed Salman on the right and Sanna Gomes on the left.

In midfield, a decision is pending between Mustafa Sheikh Yusuf and Ahmed Taha. Motas Gurbyus and Ilai Hagag are expected to start, while Antonio Sefer, who was practiced in the starting lineup, may come off the bench. Matthew Kodjo and Basil Khuri are slated to start upfront due to the injury of Daniel Fareskiv. Team chairman Khaled Duki attended the final training session, indicating significant anticipation for the game within Sakhnin.

Hagag emphasized his focus on the current match, stating, "I am focused on Sakhnin, we want to win. The professional staff has prepared us well, and we are not worried about not winning in the first two rounds." He reiterated his commitment to Beitar, saying, "If I score, I will not celebrate, I still belong to Beitar Jerusalem and want to return later."