Maxim Plakuschenko signs with Hapoel Ramat Gan

Hapoel Ramat Gan announced on Thursday that midfielder Maxim Plakuschenko has signed with the newly promoted club, after years at Maccabi Netanya and a decision by Netanya not to extend his stay. He will continue in the Israeli Premier League and is expected to be a central player under coach Massai Dego.

Plakuschenko signed for one season with an option for another. He said, "I am proud and happy to join a club with tradition, a new and promising project with high goals. We promise to give 200% on the pitch and fight for our club. I can’t wait to see you in the stands."

According to the report, Plakuschenko chose Ramat Gan over other teams in part after speaking with Dego, who told him he is counting on him and believes he can fill the roles of Gidi Kanuk and Moti Barshatzky in attacking midfield. He is not the only notable Israeli signing for the club.

As previously reported by Sport 5, Hapoel Ramat Gan has also reached an agreement with Maccabi Haifa goalkeeper Sherif Kiouf, who would reunite with Dego. His presentation depends on a release from Maccabi Haifa, and the club expects that to happen once the goalkeeper picture in Haifa becomes clearer. For now, Ramat Gan is waiting for Kiouf.