Red Star Belgrade Fans Criticize Douglas Aveso Ahead of Move to Hapoel Tel Aviv

Douglas Aveso, a young winger born in April 2006, is set to transfer from Serbian powerhouse Red Star Belgrade to Israeli club Hapoel Tel Aviv for 2.5 million euros. The deal, agreed upon in early August 2026, concludes a brief and challenging six-month stint at Red Star after his January 2026 arrival from Radnik Surdulica for 2.2 million euros. Despite high expectations, Aveso struggled to secure a regular spot under coach Dejan Stankovic, appearing only 12 times with limited impact compared to his previous role at Radnik Surdulica, where he was a key player with 52 league appearances, 9 goals, and 10 assists.

Serbian fans and sports forums have expressed strong criticism of Aveso, focusing on his physicality and tactical fit at Red Star. At 1.65 meters tall and with a slender build, supporters argue he was unable to withstand the physical demands of top-tier Serbian football, often losing possession and falling easily under pressure. Some fans mockingly noted his lack of strength and questioned the club's decision to invest millions in him, suggesting the transfer served agent interests rather than sporting logic. Concerns have also been raised about his upcoming medical tests in Tel Aviv, especially after a failed transfer to Czech club Viktoria Plzen due to medical issues.

A minority of fans defended Aveso, highlighting the intense pressure and impatience at Red Star, comparing it to Real Madrid's environment where young players need time to adapt. They argue that Aveso was not given sufficient opportunity to settle and prove himself. For Hapoel Tel Aviv, the move presents both risks and opportunities. Unlike the defensive Serbian league, the Israeli Premier League features more open play and larger spaces, potentially allowing Aveso's speed and dribbling skills to flourish in counterattacks, similar to his successful period at Radnik Surdulica.