Maccabi Haifa Optimistic About Manuel Benson's Return Ahead of League Opener

Maccabi Haifa is hopeful about the gradual return of Manuel Benson to training after recovering from Achilles tendon inflammation. Benson, the club's highest-paid player, received extended rest and treatment during the break, and the coaching staff values him highly as a key offensive leader. The team is focusing on improving their performance following two Toto Cup losses and is preparing for the league opener against Hapoel Ramat Gan in three weeks.

Meanwhile, Serbian-American striker Andrea Novakovic, who missed the recent match against Kiryat Shmona due to fitness issues, is slowly regaining form and may see playing time in the upcoming game against Ironi Tiberias. Additionally, Maccabi Haifa is seeking a new destination for Peter Agba, as no clubs are currently willing to pay his transfer fee. The club is considering loaning him out to free up a foreign player slot.

The next few weeks will be critical for the club's decisions regarding player fitness and roster adjustments as they aim to strengthen their squad for the Israeli Premier League season.