Hapoel Tel Aviv Players Express Concerns Over Sofia Training Base

Following a significant loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv in the derby, Hapoel Tel Aviv players have voiced concerns to the club's management regarding the team's potential training base in Sofia, Bulgaria. Sources indicate that team chairman Stav Shaham and professional director George Hinnas held discussions with several players in the past day. The players expressed apprehension that basing the team in Sofia would hinder its ability to succeed and operate optimally in the long term, contrasting with the professional staff's desire to be in the Bulgarian capital.

The players highlighted the difficulties in maintaining a stable daily routine and professional conduct from Sofia, emphasizing the need for a consistent base in Israel, especially for Israeli players separated from their families. Earlier this month, Shaham had stated his priority was for the team to play and be based in Israel. The recent derby defeat has amplified the importance of this issue within the club.

Ofer Yanai and Gili Ra'anan have also communicated to the players their preference for the team to train and reside in Israel. Unlike the previous year, where most foreign players had apartments in Israel, this season, the players have been provided with apartments in Bulgaria, with the exception of one player.