Hapoel Petah Tikva Coach Omer Peretz Warns Players Over Discipline

Hapoel Petah Tikva coach Omer Peretz has issued a stern warning to his squad regarding discipline issues, including lateness to training and other infractions. Peretz held a tense meeting on the field with the players, expressing his frustration and stating, "Don't test me. I can be the best with you, but whoever breaks discipline will not be here. I can also be very bad." He emphasized that such issues are unacceptable at a club of Hapoel Petah Tikva's stature, especially early in the season.

Peretz also addressed what he perceives as "resentful" players making faces during training instead of competing for playing time. He noted that while he fostered a cohesive locker room last season, cracks are appearing this year, impacting the team's atmosphere. "I'm not holding anyone here by force; if someone doesn't want to be here, my door is open, they can come and say it, and at that moment, they won't stay," Peretz declared, seemingly referencing the unexpected departure of Orel Dgani to MS Ashdod.

A player corroborated the coach's anger, stating, "Omer is rightly angry; there are a few here who allow themselves too much." Professional director Nir Levin was present during the meeting but allowed Peretz to deliver the message. The team is preparing to face league champions Hapoel Be'er Sheva on Sunday.

In other team news, striker Yves Araik Billa is expected to arrive in Israel by the beginning of the week to undergo medical tests and sign a contract. Billa, who previously played with Idan Nachmias at Ludogorets, is set to replace Frank Riboliya, who is out for the season with a torn ACL and meniscus. Billa may undergo surgery and rehabilitation in France due to his existing insurance coverage there. The club is also in advanced negotiations for a third center-back, either Roi Zrihan or Itay Ben Shabat, following Dgani's departure.