Maccabi Netanya Prepares for Season Opener with Young Defender Feldman in Focus

Maccabi Netanya is still finalizing its squad ahead of the new season but aims to start strong when it hosts Hapoel Jerusalem tomorrow. After a successful training camp, coach Roni Levi is considering several lineup options, particularly between Aziz Watara and Omri Shamir for a key position. Watara is seeking a club willing to take on his contract, which pays about 120,000 shekels per month, but has not impressed professionally. Levi has been notably impressed by young defender Beni Feldman, who has earned significant playing time during the camp and is expected to feature prominently until a foreign center-back is signed. If a new foreign defender arrives, Denis Kolikov may be loaned out.

Levi, known for developing young talent, also plans to give winger Alex Talpa a chance in the starting lineup. Alon Azougi currently has the edge over Karam Jaber, meaning Oz Bilu will wear the captain's armband. Midfielder Dolev Haziza is expected to join training today after officially signing with Netanya following his departure from Maccabi Haifa. Haziza, who was initially demanding October's salary, waived that request to facilitate his move, highlighting his eagerness to join the team.

Levi praised the squad for their strong performance both on and off the field during the camp, emphasizing that while winning friendlies is positive, the real challenge begins now. He reminded players that upcoming matches are opportunities to prove their fit for the club's goals. The projected starting lineup includes Samuel Silva; Alon Azougi, Bakari Konate, Beni Feldman, Giorgi Morozov; Aziz Watara or Omri Shamir; Basem Za'arura, Maor Levi, Oz Bilu, Alex Talpa; and Mateusz Dąbrowski.