Agent Reveals Why Maccabi Tel Aviv Did Not Sign Douglas Avaso Before Hapoel Tel Aviv Deal

Following the signing of Douglas Avaso by Hapoel Tel Aviv, rumors circulated about his potential move to Maccabi Tel Aviv. Nir Amir, the agent who offered Avaso to several Israeli clubs including Maccabi, clarified the behind-the-scenes details. He explained that Maccabi was very familiar with Avaso and initially had him high on their recruitment list, seeking a left-footed right winger. However, at the time of the offer, Maccabi lacked a professional manager to finalize decisions. Once Steve Vanahern was appointed as the professional manager, Maccabi expressed strong interest but faced a roster limit issue, having nine foreign players already registered, which blocked new signings despite a high budget.

Amir noted that when Hapoel Tel Aviv entered negotiations through agent Stav Hachmon, he stepped back to avoid a bidding war. Maccabi also refrained from making an offer to avoid conflict with Hapoel. Avaso was eager to leave Red Star Belgrade quickly, and Hapoel, having good relations with the club, secured the deal swiftly. Amir emphasized there was no injury or loan request from Maccabi; simply no offer was made due to the foreign player cap and managerial transitions.

With Maccabi recently loaning Henry Edu to Portuguese club Tondela, they still need to resolve the status of foreign players Leon Nicolaescu and Crvin Andrade, the latter insisting on playing in Brazil. This case highlights how foreign player limits and management changes can delay Maccabi's anticipated signings in the Israeli Premier League.