Israeli Football Agent Discusses Transfer Window, Player Status

The Israeli football transfer window closed recently, with all Premier League teams finalizing their rosters. Football agent Gilad Katz spoke to Sport 5 about several deals and broader issues within Israeli football. Katz expressed hope that Ilan Almog's move to Maccabi Netanya would help the talented player regain prominence, stating it was the best option available.

Katz also addressed Dia Saba's exclusion from the national team, highlighting the player's strong form. He expressed confusion over the situation with coach Ran Ben Shimon but affirmed Saba's good condition and potential for continued success in Turkey. Regarding Stav Turi'el's national team snub, Katz acknowledged the player's disappointment but noted the difficult decisions coaches must make, comparing it to the inclusion of the young Noam Shtayfman.

Discussing Yarin Levi's new contract with Maccabi Haifa, Katz indicated the player's desire to stay but acknowledged his dream of playing abroad, noting that Israeli players can succeed internationally. Regarding Alon Tourgeman, Katz stated that Hapoel Haifa's owner understood the player's value and would not allow him to leave, suggesting the club should offer him a contract extension. Katz dismissed rumors of Guy Melamed moving from Maccabi Haifa to Maccabi Tel Aviv, citing the former's importance to his current team and Melamed's ongoing recovery from injury.

Katz also commented on Ori Azoulay's move to Beitar Jerusalem, believing the player sought more opportunities than he would have received at Maccabi Tel Aviv. He expressed confidence in Aviel Zargari's potential in the Premier League, noting the player has not received enough chances. Finally, Katz reiterated that Jordan Shua remains Beitar Jerusalem's best player, despite recurring discussions about his future.

On a broader note, Katz lamented the declining status of Israeli players, citing clubs' preference for foreign players due to perceived ease, even though many foreign signings do not succeed. He also mentioned that Yahav Gurfinkel's contract was terminated in Cyprus, calling the move there a mistake and highlighting the advantage of being a free agent after the transfer window.