Former Coach Saraf Criticizes Maccabi Tel Aviv’s Squad After Heavy Loss to CSKA Sofia

Following Maccabi Tel Aviv’s 3-0 defeat to CSKA Sofia, former coach and Sport 5 analyst Shlomo Saraf expressed serious concerns about the team’s readiness for the upcoming Israeli Premier League season. Saraf described the current squad as only capable of competing for seventh or eighth place, citing weaknesses in defense, midfield, and attack. He criticized the starting lineup against CSKA Sofia, particularly singling out Shahar Rozen and Itay Ben Hamo as unfit to start for Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Saraf also questioned the reliability of key players like Dor Peretz, noting inconsistency in performance and goal scoring. He called for a thorough internal review and urgent reinforcements, emphasizing that the current player quality is insufficient for championship contention. Regarding striker Said Abu Farhi, Saraf acknowledged his potential but said he is not the type of forward Maccabi needs, suggesting the club should sell him to gain financially.

On the ongoing saga of Roy Revivo, Saraf sympathized with the player’s desire to leave, noting that as a coach he would try to persuade him to finish his tenure positively, similar to past cases. He stressed that Revivo’s contributions to the club have been significant and that fans should not be angry with him. Saraf concluded that the team’s poor showing against CSKA Sofia reveals deeper issues that must be addressed before the league season progresses.