Maccabi Tel Aviv Shifts Transfer Strategy to Experienced Players

Maccabi Tel Aviv is undergoing a significant shift in its transfer policy for the upcoming summer of 2026, moving away from signing young prospects towards acquiring more experienced players. This change is evident in their recent signings, including 34-year-old James Tavernier, 29-year-old Dan Glazer, 29-year-old Gabi Kanyukovsky, and 27-year-old Ester Sokler. The average age of new signings is the highest since the summer of 2022, when key players like Dor Peretz and Eran Zahavi returned.

Previously, Maccabi Tel Aviv operated as a "development club," nurturing young talent who would later be sold for significant profits, as seen with players like Kervin Andrade and Felicio Milson. This approach, however, led to inconsistencies on the field, with the team often collapsing under pressure, particularly during the previous season under coach Žarko Lazetić. The club suffered several heavy defeats due to a perceived lack of leadership and resilience.

The new strategy, spearheaded by professional director Steven Vahran, emphasizes signing players with proven character, leadership qualities, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations. Vahran stated that players must "fit our profile, high pressure, aggressiveness, and the ability to cope with the club's special circumstances." This shift is also influenced by the security situation in Israel, with the club prioritizing mature players who can better manage the challenges.

Experienced players like Tavernier, who captained Celtic, and Sokler, who became a key figure at Radnički Niš, are expected to provide immediate impact and leadership. Kanyukovsky and Glazer, both multiple Israeli champions with Maccabi Tel Aviv, also bring valuable experience. The team aims to blend these experienced newcomers with existing talents like Tyris Asante to create a more stable and competitive squad capable of consistently challenging for the league title.

While the long-term strategy regarding developing young talent remains to be seen, the immediate focus is on short-term success. Maccabi Tel Aviv, with its budget, is expected to compete for and potentially win the championship annually. The acquisition of more seasoned players is seen as crucial to achieving this goal.