Maccabi Tel Aviv Midfielder Gabi Kanikowski Details Transfer Saga

Gabi Kanikowski revealed that his transfer to Maccabi Tel Aviv was only finalized two days before signing, despite numerous rumors circulating beforehand. The midfielder is expected to start in Monday's match against Hapoel Be'er Sheva.

Maccabi Tel Aviv announced Kanikowski's signing last week, but the terms were only agreed upon 48 hours prior to the announcement. The club is currently unable to register another foreign player, impacting new signing James Tavernier.

Tavernier, a British defender signed as a free agent for one season with an option for another, has not yet been presented. His registration is contingent on the immediate loan departure of Crven Andrade, likely to a Brazilian club. Maccabi hopes to register Tavernier for their next match, the derby next Monday, if not sooner.

In parallel, Maccabi is pursuing another foreign winger but faces complications with Yon Nikolascu. The striker's recovery from injury is slow, with a potential return not expected until December or January. Nikolascu is unwilling to accept a loan to the only remaining Romanian league option, forcing Maccabi to consider financial decisions regarding freezing his contract.

Ophir Malika is set to start in goal after returning from suspension. Noam Ben Harush will likely play left-back, replacing Roy Revivo, while Tyris Asante is expected to start at right-back.