Former Israeli Premier League Player Lamaq Benda Confirms He Is Safe but Refuses Return to Italian Club Lecce

Lamaq Benda, a former player for Israeli clubs Maccabi Petah Tikva and Maccabi Netanya, has reassured the public that he is safe after disappearing and missing Lecce's preseason training starting July 12. The Italian club's sporting director, Stefano Trinchera, had expressed concern for Benda's wellbeing, but reports from Sky Italia indicate that Benda communicated through an intermediary that he is fine but does not intend to return to Italy or play for Lecce. Benda's contract with Lecce runs through the end of the next season, but the club has not offered him a renewal, and the player himself is unwilling to continue with the team. Previously, Saudi club Al-Fateh had offered Benda a lucrative contract, but that option has been withdrawn as they pursue other candidates. The situation appears to be a dispute between the player and the club rather than a more serious issue, and Benda's next career move remains uncertain.