Vladimir Ivic Reveals Shock Over Maccabi Tel Aviv Bonus Offer During Championship Run

Vladimir Ivic, one of Maccabi Tel Aviv's most successful coaches, shared insights from his first tenure with the club in a detailed interview with Sport24. Ivic took over the team after they had finished third and had not won a championship for three years. He recalled being surprised by the club's offer of a bonus for finishing second, something he had never experienced before in his career. Ivic noted that even Olympiacos, a highly decorated club, would not offer such a bonus for second place. The club also promised a larger bonus if they won the championship.

Despite challenges, including restrictions on player acquisitions due to fair play regulations, Ivic led Maccabi Tel Aviv to a dominant championship victory in March, finishing 31 points ahead of the second-place team. That season, the team also won the league cup, marking two very successful years for Ivic, his staff, and the players. Ivic emphasized that none of these achievements would have been possible without the support of his coaching team and players.