Tiberias FC Faces Point Deduction, Plans to Field Youth Players Amid Ongoing Dispute

Tiberias FC continues to grapple with a disciplinary case involving contract irregularities. On July 22, the club withdrew its appeal at the Supreme Court of Arbitration after receiving assurances from the Israel Football Association prosecutor that formal charges would be filed soon. While relegation is not currently on the table, a points deduction is possible, adding to the six points already deducted for the double contracts issue.

Following the hearing, club officials expressed determination to fight any penalties, stating that even if a single point is deducted, they will promote youth players to the senior team. Owner Aryeh Kalmanzon described the hearing as a positive step, noting the judges rejected the appeal but encouraged the club to withdraw it rather than delay proceedings.

Tiberias FC is preparing for its Toto Cup season opener against Bnei Sakhnin on Saturday with a severely depleted squad. Only two foreign players, Chris Kouakou and Ondrej Bach, will be available, as four players remain suspended and head coach Eliran Hodeda is also absent. Youth department professional manager Morris Ozen will serve as interim coach for one month. Additionally, new signing Gal Ma'atok will not play due to unresolved compensation issues with his former club.

Despite the turmoil, the club passed the financial oversight committee with a budget of 21 million shekels for the upcoming season, a 3 million increase from last year, with player salaries accounting for approximately 13.5 million shekels.

The club remains under scrutiny as it navigates the disciplinary process and prepares for the new season amid significant challenges.