Beitar Jerusalem Aims to Unlock Nana Antwi's Full Potential as Right Back

In January, Beitar Jerusalem sought a right back and identified Nana Antwi, then playing for Romanian club Hermannstadt. Despite his athleticism and technical skills, Antwi's career had been inconsistent, including a stint at Steaua Bucharest and a loan to a former Beitar player’s team. Beitar's staff, including Almog Cohen, who scouted him, were impressed by his GPS data and athletic metrics but noted his fluctuating performance and questioned his mental approach and passion for development.

Beitar conducted thorough background checks through contacts in Armenia and Romania to assess Antwi’s character and motivation. Cohen described Antwi as positive, disciplined, and connected with teammates but sometimes complacent, performing below 30% of his potential. Injuries also affected his progress; he tore a muscle in the playoff last season after gradually integrating into the team and was considered Beitar’s best player before the injury.

Cohen purchased Antwi from Steaua for 250,000 euros, confident in his abilities. Beitar views him as a top-five European league caliber player, but his future depends on his personal drive and mental growth. Approaching 26, this season may be Antwi’s last chance to develop fully at Beitar or be sold for a significant fee. The club remains patient, focusing on his ongoing progress both physically and mentally.