Beitar Jerusalem Faces Dilemma Over Pressing Demands on Star Players Shua and Atzili

Beitar Jerusalem's 2026/27 season is at a critical juncture as they prepare for a decisive away match against Austria Vienna in the Conference League qualifiers. After losing the first leg 2-1, the club's coach Almog Cohen has reportedly urged star players Omri Atzili and Yarden Shua to increase their intensity and pressing during matches, warning that failure to do so could result in them being benched. Cohen, who also served as the club's sporting director and has experience from Germany, emphasizes the importance of a high-pressing style to regain possession quickly and disrupt opponents' play early.

Despite their offensive contributions, Atzili and Shua were involved in 40 of Beitar's 78 goals last season, the duo's defensive work rate and pressing statistics lag behind those of top wingers in other Israeli Premier League teams. Cohen's approach reflects modern football trends popularized by coaches like Jürgen Klopp, where pressing leads to turnovers and scoring chances. However, the players and some analysts argue that expecting them to press intensively for 90 minutes is unrealistic and could harm their effectiveness.

In recent matches, both players have been substituted before full time, highlighting a rotation strategy possibly aimed at managing their fitness and longevity. While Atzili, 33, and Shua, 27, have shown they can conserve energy on the pitch, their limited defensive actions contrast with the pressing demands. Veteran coach Nir Klinger supports Cohen's call for increased intensity but acknowledges the need to balance it with the players' strengths.

The debate centers on whether Beitar should prioritize a collective pressing system that may reduce individual offensive output or rely on the unique talents of Atzili and Shua to create scoring opportunities, even if it means less defensive pressure. The resolution of this dilemma could significantly impact Beitar Jerusalem's success in European competition and the domestic league this season.