Israel National Football Team Seeks to Unlock Anan Khalaily's Potential

The Israeli national football team is facing a crucial Nations League match against Ireland, but attention is also focused on the underperformance of Anan Khalaily, the most expensive player in Israeli football history. Despite his high transfer value and status as a key player, Khalaily has yet to score or assist for the national team. Coach Ran Ben Shimon views Khalaily as essential for the team's Euro 2028 qualification campaign, stating, "He is more than ready to lead us to the Euros. He deserves it, but ultimately it is a team effort." Ben Shimon aims to find the right balance to integrate Khalaily effectively, acknowledging past Israeli stars who struggled to replicate club form internationally.

Khalaily's struggles were evident in a recent match against Austria, where he was deployed in a more advanced right-wing position, unlike his usual fullback role at Crystal Palace or Union SG. In that game, he had minimal impact, failing to touch the ball in the opponent's box and being partly blamed for a late Austrian goal. While the loss wasn't solely his fault, expectations are high, especially against a strong Irish side featuring Premier League and Championship players. Ben Shimon sees Khalaily's speed and ability to exploit long balls as potential assets against Ireland's physical style.

The article suggests a tactical mismatch between Khalaily's club role and his national team position. At Crystal Palace, he operates as a wing-back in a three-defender system, utilizing his speed and attacking runs. His previous seasons show solid numbers for a defender, not a forward winger. The team's strategy might need to create space for Khalaily, potentially focusing attacks down the left flank with Manor Solomon and Oscar Gloukh to open opportunities for him. The article posits that Khalaily is most effective when the defense is unprepared, allowing him to use his physical advantage and speed.

Looking ahead, the team might consider a three-defender formation to provide more freedom for Khalaily and fellow wing-back Roy Revivo. This could be implemented in future matches against Kosovo or Ireland if key players were available. Regardless of the formation, the core principle remains: Khalaily needs to play at his best, similar to his club role, for the national team to succeed. The extended break could allow for tactical experimentation, with key players like goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, Gloukh, Solomon, and Khalaily forming the team's core for the coming decade.