Maccabi Tel Aviv Eyes Perfect Start Against Netanya With Key Player's Return

Maccabi Tel Aviv is set to host Maccabi Netanya on Saturday, aiming to maintain their perfect record in the league following a derby victory. The team is expected to field the same starting lineup that defeated Hapoel Tel Aviv earlier in the week, with club sources indicating satisfaction with the team's current performance and lack of fatigue. Sagiv Yehezkel, who has returned to full training, will be available for selection but is not anticipated to start.

The club is currently managing the absence of two foreign players due to injury: Christian Blic and Jhon Nicolescu. This situation limits the team to six foreign players in the squad for the foreseeable future. Nicolescu is expected to return soon and will provide an additional attacking option, with another forward potentially arriving later to replace the departed Said Abu Farchi, who has moved to the United States. Blic's return will also alleviate pressure on central defender Isco Cissoko.

The projected starting lineup for Maccabi Tel Aviv includes Ofek Malika in goal, a defensive line of James Tavernier, Raz Shlomo, Aliou Cissé, and Noam Ben Harush. The midfield is expected to feature Isco Cissoko, Gabi Kaniovsky, and Dor Peretz, with Hilo Varela, Osher Davida, and Ester Sukar forming the attacking trio.