Wesley Pataci Shines in Preseason After Struggling at AZ Alkmaar

Wesley Pataci, the former Maccabi Tel Aviv player, is showing promising signs ahead of the 2026/27 season after a challenging debut year at AZ Alkmaar. Maccabi Tel Aviv sold the Brazilian midfielder to Alkmaar for a record 7.3 million euros, with about 5 million euros going directly to the Israeli club. However, Pataci struggled to secure a regular starting spot last season, scoring only two league goals, mostly playing as a right winger.

In a recent preseason match against Olympiacos, Pataci started as a forward midfielder and scored a goal while also winning a penalty, contributing to a 3-2 victory. Dutch media and fans praised his performance, suggesting he should start the season as the team's number 10 and noting that he is silencing critics with his consistent play. So far, Pataci has scored four goals in preseason, including two against Genk.

AZ Alkmaar is set to face PSV Eindhoven in the Dutch Super Cup on Sunday. Maccabi Tel Aviv retains a sell-on clause, entitling them to a percentage of any future transfer fee, such as 50,000 euros if Pataci is sold for 10 million euros. This arrangement could yield additional financial benefits for Maccabi if Pataci continues to develop and attracts higher transfer offers.