Bnei Sakhnin Signs Romanian Goalkeeper Raul Balbeirao, Surprising Veteran Abu Neil

Bnei Sakhnin announced the signing of Romanian goalkeeper Raul Balbeirao as their new first-choice keeper on July 18, 2026. This move effectively relegates the club's longtime goalkeeper Muhammad Abu Neil, who was raised in the club and considered the successor to club legend Mahmoud Kandil, to the bench. Abu Neil reportedly learned about Balbeirao's arrival through the media and expressed surprise at the decision.

Yossi Abuksis, who joined the club last season, advocated for signing a new goalkeeper and successfully negotiated with Balbeirao after evaluating several candidates. The club hopes Balbeirao will join the team soon for their training camp. Meanwhile, Bnei Sakhnin is also assessing other options for a striker after German-Ghanaian forward Yoselfo Barnes, who was recently trialed, failed to impress. The club's attempt to sign Larry Kayode fell through after he signed with a Turkish team.

Bnei Sakhnin continues to reshape its squad ahead of the new season, with key changes in goalkeeping and forward positions as they prepare for the upcoming campaign in the Israeli Premier League.