Eli Dasa Chose Maccabi Haifa Over Maccabi Tel Aviv After Failed Talks

Defender Eli Dasa opted to join Maccabi Haifa this summer after discussions with Maccabi Tel Aviv's professional director revealed that a transfer was not feasible due to budget constraints. Dasa, who spent seven years abroad after leaving Maccabi Tel Aviv as a beloved player, initially preferred to continue his career overseas. While he received interest from Cyprus and other locations, none of the offers met his desired level.

As difficulties arose with overseas options, Dasa began considering a return to Israel. Maor Kandil, speaking on the "Olim LaRegel" podcast, shared that "whispers occurred during this summer between Dasa and the professional director." During these conversations, the possibility of Dasa joining Maccabi Tel Aviv was explored. However, Van the professional director communicated that the move was not a budgetary direction for the club, leading to no formal negotiations or offers.

Instead of pursuing Dasa, Maccabi Tel Aviv's manager, Kenny Miller, decided to sign James Tavernier, whom he knew and valued from Rangers. Tavernier's one-year contract is reportedly worth approximately 750,000 euros, a figure higher than Dasa's potential cost, even when including tax implications for the Israeli player.

Meanwhile, Dasa did receive a genuine offer from Beitar Jerusalem, comparable in value to the terms offered by Maccabi Haifa. Despite Beitar Jerusalem's belief that he would sign with them, Dasa ultimately chose Maccabi Haifa.