Maccabi Tel Aviv Faces Crisis Amid Player Departures and Transfer Failures
Maccabi Tel Aviv is struggling once again, as highlighted by CEO Jack Englidis during a recent press conference where he spoke of "culture, investment, and achievement." The club is reeling from a disappointing season marked by three coaching changes, fan protests leading to firings, allegations of sexual harassment, and a 13-point gap behind champions Hapoel Be'er Sheva. Former player Haim Revivo criticized the club's management, noting the failure to secure new players even weeks before the transfer window closes and the reliance on players like Roy Revivo, who reportedly does not wish to stay.
The team’s poor performance peaked with an embarrassing elimination by CSKA Sofia in the Europa League qualifiers. This summer, Maccabi appointed Kenny Miller as head coach despite his lack of senior team experience, signed only one foreign player, Astr Sukler, for one million euros, and sold Said Abu-Farha to Colorado Rapids for five million dollars. A senior player expressed frustration over the club’s lack of continuity and poor transfer strategy compared to rivals like Hapoel Be'er Sheva, who strengthened their squad early and effectively.
Maccabi’s initial optimism from winning the Super Cup and a strong performance against Sheriff Tiraspol quickly faded after heavy defeats and ongoing internal turmoil. The club faces challenges with its foreign player roster, including interest in Tyrese Asante from Italy and uncertainty over others like Henry Edu and Christian Blitz, who is sidelined with injury. The club struggles to offload unwanted foreign players due to a full quota, complicating efforts to bring in reinforcements.
Despite these issues, the club insists it will not sell off key players in desperation. New sporting director Steven Vanahern, appointed in June, emphasizes a strategic, gradual rebuilding process, mentioning potential signings like Serbian defender Nikola Maras and Belgian winger Thibaut Batten. However, the slow pace of change is problematic for a club of Maccabi’s stature.
CEO Englidis acknowledged behind-the-scenes work since last season but admitted much remains unseen. The prolonged absence of owner Mitchell Goldhar, who has not visited Israel recently or publicly acknowledged the club’s cup victory, adds to the uncertainty. Englidis stressed Goldhar’s active involvement in key decisions despite his physical absence. Captain Dor Peretz summarized the situation, stating the team needs a deeper, higher-quality squad to compete for titles. With rivals managing their summers more effectively, Maccabi’s current trajectory raises doubts about avoiding another lost season.
