Maccabi Tel Aviv Faces Setbacks After 3-0 Loss to CSKA Sofia Ahead of Return Leg

Maccabi Tel Aviv suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat against CSKA Sofia on Thursday in Batumi, complicating their chances ahead of the crucial return leg next week. Coach Kenny Miller addressed his players after the match, acknowledging their poor performance and lack of attention to detail, saying, "Everyone was not at their best. We neglected the small things and paid the price. But we still have to believe."

The loss highlighted Maccabi Tel Aviv's ongoing struggles with squad reinforcement this summer. While several players, including Tyrese Asante and Roy Revivo, are expected to leave, few new signings have arrived. So far, only Dan Glazer and striker Astr Sukler have joined, with limited impact. The club still needs reinforcements in key positions such as right winger, central defender, left foreign defender, and attacking midfielder.

During the match, Maccabi was forced to play winger Helio Varela out of position and start Ido Shahar on the wing due to a lack of options. The status of Oshar Davida remains uncertain amid reduced playing time. The club admitted that when star player Manor Peretz is off form, others must step up, but currently, this responsibility is lacking.

With more departures expected, including possibly Roy Revivo, the team faces a challenging period. The club emphasized the need to bring in new players before the next round of European competition, regardless of the tournament. On a positive note, Shagiv Yehezkel is likely to be fit for the return leg, but if Revivo's transfer does not materialize, his participation remains doubtful. The club noted, "There is no professional substitute for Revivo, especially in the Israeli market, so we may need to sign a foreign left-back if he leaves."

Maccabi Tel Aviv now confronts a critical phase where squad reinforcements are essential to avoid further setbacks in European competition and domestic challenges.