Agent Claims Coach Ignored Player Nikolaescu at Maccabi Tel Aviv

Yoni Nikolaescu's agent, Rafi Epstein, revealed that coach Pako Ayestarán did not acknowledge the player when he signed with Maccabi Tel Aviv, reportedly ignoring him completely. Epstein stated that Ayestarán "didn't even say hello" and "didn't shake his hand" when Nikolaescu signed in Serbia, leaving the player confused and questioning if everything was alright.

Epstein suggested that Ayestarán clearly did not want Nikolaescu on the team, a sentiment the player struggled with during his first few months, feeling lost and overwhelmed. The agent implied that the coach's initial disregard for Nikolaescu, and potentially for another player, Stav Makinen, who was also nearly sidelined, contributed to their difficulties.

According to Epstein, Nikolaescu's frustration and the pressure of not playing, despite having the highest contract, may have contributed to his ligament tear injury. He recounted that Nikolaescu felt unable to even make a simple pass due to the immense pressure. Epstein also mentioned a prior Zoom call with Ayestarán and another individual before Nikolaescu signed, but described that conversation as "not real."