Hapoel Petah Tikva Goalkeeper Omer Katz Left Out Ahead of Toto Cup Match Amid Maccabi Haifa Transfer Talks

Omer Katz, the goalkeeper for Hapoel Petah Tikva, was not included in the squad for the Toto Cup match against Hapoel Jerusalem on August 9, 2026. Instead, Roy Sasson started in goal. Katz is reportedly a target for Maccabi Haifa, who want to sign him as a backup goalkeeper to Omri Glazer. An offer has already been submitted to Hapoel Petah Tikva, and it was revealed last month that Katz has reached a preliminary agreement with Maccabi Haifa.

Despite this, Hapoel Petah Tikva is reluctant to release Katz quickly, as they acknowledge it will be difficult to find a replacement goalkeeper. Roy Sasson, who is currently the backup, is well regarded but the club prefers to keep Katz until a suitable alternative is found. The situation highlights the ongoing negotiations and the club's cautious approach to the potential transfer.