Maccabi Haifa's Manuel Benson Suffers Serious Knee Injury Ahead of Premier League Season

Four days before Maccabi Haifa's first match in the Israeli Premier League, the club received bad news regarding Manuel Benson. The winger, who was injured during Monday's Toto Cup ranking match against Hapoel Jerusalem, was diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus in his knee. This injury is expected to sideline him for an extended period.

Benson entered the game in the 80th minute but was forced to leave shortly after due to knee pain, requiring assistance from the medical staff. An MRI scan confirmed the severity of the injury. The club announced that Benson will begin treatment and rehabilitation under medical supervision and wished him a full and speedy recovery, pledging support throughout his rehabilitation process.

The 29-year-old winger joined Maccabi Haifa during the January transfer window of the previous season. He made 18 appearances across all competitions, scoring one goal and providing three assists. His absence is a significant blow to the team ahead of the new season.