Ex-Maccabi Tel Aviv Player Blames Israel's Security Situation for Poor Performance

Venezuelan forward Kervin Andrade, 21, who was on loan at Maccabi Tel Aviv last season, stated that the security situation in Israel negatively impacted his performance. Andrade, who has since joined Brazilian club Sport Recife, explained that being an emotional player, the ongoing conflict made it difficult for him to feel settled and perform at his best.

"My time in Israel wasn't so good because, as everyone knows, it's a country at war. I'm a very emotional player, and if my head isn't calm, I don't think I can produce my best," Andrade said in an interview in Brazil. He emphasized that this emotional toll was the primary reason his stint in Israel fell short of expectations.

Andrade also confirmed he is in good physical condition, having trained rigorously in preparation for his return to Brazil. He noted that both the coaches and the team found him to be in good shape upon his arrival.

Regarding his preferred playing position, Andrade expressed comfort as an attacking winger who cuts inside from the flank. However, he affirmed his willingness to play wherever the coaching staff deems necessary, whether centrally, on the wing, or in a deeper role.

During the 2025/2026 season with Maccabi Tel Aviv, Andrade made 38 appearances, scoring three goals and providing two assists. The loan agreement reportedly includes a purchase option for 60% of his economic rights for €2 million at the end of the contract. Andrade, who came up through Venezuelan football, has earned call-ups to his country's youth and senior national teams. Before his time in Israel, he played for Fortaleza in the 2024 and 2025 seasons.