Rafi Menco Left Out of Hapoel Emek Squad Amidst Professional Disagreements

Israeli basketball player Rafi Menco was once again excluded from the Hapoel Emek squad for their recent loss against Galil Elyon. Although Menco dressed for a prior practice game due to an injury to teammate Lucas Goldberg, he was not included in the official roster for the latest match.

Sources within Hapoel Emek indicate that Menco has been training separately from the main team recently, and has even been asked to arrive earlier for gym sessions with younger players. This situation arises from disagreements within the team's professional staff regarding the status of the Israeli national team forward. Some staff members believe Menco should be integrated into the team and given playing time.

Hapoel Emek stated that Menco is receiving the same conditions and facilities as other players on the team. The club is awaiting an offer from another team willing to sign Menco and cover his full salary, estimated at approximately $300,000.

Earlier this month, Hapoel Emek's professional manager, Yonatan Alon, told Sport Channel that Menco is not part of the team's professional plans, describing the situation as uncomfortable. Alon acknowledged Menco as a great person and player, and confirmed the club respects his contract.