Maccabi Netanya Defender Khvadzhiani Suffers Knee Injury in Training

Maccabi Netanya's Georgian defender, Saba Khvadzhiani, has suffered a knee injury during training, just as he was returning from a lengthy rehabilitation period. Khvadzhiani, who missed over a year after undergoing surgery for a torn cruciate ligament, felt a sharp pain during a training session on Saturday due to an awkward movement.

His teammates reported the incident, and the player is scheduled for further medical examinations on Sunday. The hope is that the injury is not severe enough to sideline him for an extended period.

Khvadzhiani was not initially in coach Roni Levi's plans, but with the team still seeking a foreign defender, he was expected to remain with the squad and potentially get an opportunity.

Meanwhile, Dolev Haziza was absent from training due to illness. The club is also in negotiations with Itay Ben Shabbat regarding compensation before his potential departure, with Hapoel Petah Tikva reportedly interested in signing him.

Brazilian winger Izak, who signed a one-year contract with the club, is expected to arrive in Israel on Sunday. For the upcoming match against Hapoel Ramat Gan on Monday, Bassam Zaarura is expected to return to the starting lineup, replacing Maor Levy, who played injured in the last game and has been advised to rest.