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

Venezuelan winger Kerwin Andrade, who was on loan at Maccabi Tel Aviv from the summer, stated that Israel's security situation negatively impacted his performance during his time in the country. Andrade, 21, explained in a Brazilian interview that he is an emotional player and requires mental peace to perform well, which was disrupted by the ongoing conflict.

"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 good performance. That's what hurt my time there the most," Andrade said. He added that despite not playing much recently, he is in good physical condition and prepared for his return to Brazil with Sport Recife.

Andrade expressed his preference for playing as a winger who cuts inside but affirmed his willingness to play wherever the coach needs him, including centrally or deeper. During the 2025/2026 season, he scored three goals and provided two assists in 38 appearances for his previous club. The loan deal includes a purchase option for 60% of his economic rights for €2 million at the end of the contract.

Before his stint in Israel, Andrade played for Fortaleza in the 2024 and 2025 seasons and has represented Venezuela at various youth levels and the senior national team.