Hapoel Be'er Sheva Signs Younes Melida to Boost Squad Depth Ahead of European Campaign

Hapoel Be'er Sheva announced the signing of winger Younes Melida from Maccabi Tel Aviv on August 16, 2026, marking a surprising summer transfer. Melida, 26, had limited playing time over the past two seasons at Maccabi Tel Aviv, making only nine appearances and scoring once last season, with just one start in a low-stakes match against Hapoel Petah Tikva. Despite being the fourth-choice forward behind players like Astr Sokler and Saeed Abu Farhi, Be'er Sheva sees value in Melida primarily for squad depth as they prepare to compete in at least two competitions, including a European tournament.

Coach Koozuch plans to utilize Melida as an alternative winger, complementing key forwards Javon East and Igor Zlatanovic. East often plays as a winger who cuts inside, so Melida's speed and ability to create chances could provide tactical flexibility. Melida's physical stats from last season show he maintained good fitness, covering 5.9 kilometers per 90 minutes and reaching a top sprint speed of 33.5 km/h, despite limited game time. His style suits Be'er Sheva's attacking system, which relies on movement, pressing, and exploiting space, potentially allowing him to contribute as a "third attacker" rather than a traditional striker.

Melida's career has lacked consistent goal-scoring, aside from a notable four-goal game during the COVID-19 season, but his ability to generate opportunities and press defenders fits Be'er Sheva's collective approach. The club values his experience with top teams and believes he can help manage the physical demands of a long season. Previously, Beitar Jerusalem showed interest in Melida, and his signing reflects confidence from both coach Koozuch and assistant coach Valmog Cohen, who worked with him at Maccabi Netanya. While Maccabi Tel Aviv favored more dominant strikers, Be'er Sheva's system may better harness Melida's potential, especially as they aim to maintain a strong squad for domestic and European challenges.