Maccabi Tel Aviv Pleased With Leo Varela's World Cup Performance as Transfer Talks Continue

Maccabi Tel Aviv expressed strong satisfaction with winger Leo Varela's performance at the recent World Cup, where Cape Verde was narrowly eliminated by Argentina 3-2 after extra time. Varela entered the match in the second half and played through extra time, showing notable activity by challenging the reigning world champions, earning a yellow card, and demonstrating courage against Lionel Messi's team. The club recognizes that Varela now needs rest but hopes to have him back soon as they prepare for upcoming key fixtures, including the Super Cup against Hapoel Be'er Sheva in 12 days and the Europa League qualifiers a week later. Currently, Maccabi Tel Aviv has not received any purchase offers for Varela, who remains one of their prominent attacking players following a strong finish to last season, including scoring a World Cup goal for Cape Verde.

Meanwhile, negotiations continue for the signing of Cypriot defender Stelios Andreu from Polish club Widzew Łódź. Andreu has given his approval for the move, and the situation is now more favorable for Maccabi Tel Aviv to secure his transfer, after previous talks had stalled. Additionally, Kevin Andrade has yet to join the team's training camp in Serbia due to difficulties leaving Venezuela following a recent earthquake there.