Former Maccabi Tel Aviv Owner Eric Stillman Calls for Urgent Club Overhaul Amid Ownership Change

Eric Stillman, who was briefly part of Maccabi Tel Aviv's ownership, spoke on 103fm sports radio about the recent dramatic shift in the club's ownership. The Recanati family exercised their option to buy shares from the Federman family, ending Stillman's involvement after less than two months. Stillman explained that he had been actively involved in team building and commercial planning during his short tenure. He acknowledged the ownership change was a surprise but not shocking, and he respected the Recanati family's business rights.

Stillman revealed that a new budget was approved shortly before his departure, slightly less than what he requested but still increased. He expressed confidence the club would meet this budget and remain competitive, though he noted the financial challenges ahead and the need for additional investors to support the Recanati family and other shareholders. Regarding player Yam Madar, whose contract was still pending, Stillman said the delay was likely strategic to allow the Recanati family to take credit for the signing, and he expected the deal to close soon.

Criticizing the ownership change as a power struggle driven by ego rather than economic or professional logic, Stillman described Maccabi Tel Aviv as needing urgent revival, comparing the club's condition to requiring a defibrillator. He highlighted systemic neglect over the years and called for rapid modernization from outdated practices to a 2026 standard. Stillman also distanced himself from former co-owner Ofer Yanai, emphasizing his own more restrained social media approach aimed at marketing and increasing fan engagement. He concluded by stressing the necessity for a new management style to advance the club.