Anan Khalaili's Struggles in Israel National Team Examined

The Israeli national football team faces a crucial Nations League match against Ireland, but attention is also focused on the struggles of Anan Khalaili, the most expensive player in Israeli football history. Despite being a key player for his club, Crystal Palace, Khalaili has yet to score or assist for the national team. Coach Ran Ben Shimon views Khalaili as central to the team's aspirations, stating he is "more than ready to lead us to the Euros," but emphasizes the need for team cohesion.

Khalaili, who recently turned 22, has shown a significant gap between his club performance and his national team output. In a recent match against Austria, he was deployed in a more advanced right-winger position, unlike his usual role at Palace or Union SG, and struggled to make an impact. He failed to touch the ball in the opponent's box, completed only one dribble in Austrian territory, and was implicated in a late goal conceded by Israel. While not solely to blame for the loss, the expectations for him are higher, especially against a strong Irish side with multiple Premier League and Championship players.

Ben Shimon has identified Ireland's physicality and long balls as areas where Khalaili could excel. However, the team's tactical setup may be hindering him. Unlike at his club, where he plays as a wing-back in a three-man defense, allowing him to utilize his speed and attacking runs, his national team role as a winger in a 4-3-3 formation, with Guy Mzerahi behind him, appears less effective. His previous seasons saw strong offensive contributions as a defender, not a forward winger.

To maximize Khalaili's potential, the team might need to create space for him, potentially focusing the attack on Manor Solomon and Oscar Gloukh to draw defenders and open opportunities for Khalaili's counter-attacking speed. The article suggests that a long-term solution could involve a three-man defense, granting more freedom to Khalaili and fellow wing-back Roy Revivo. Ultimately, for the national team to reach its full potential, Khalaili needs to perform at his best, ideally in a role similar to his club position.