Red Star Belgrade Coach Pauses Transfers, Promises Opportunities Amid Squad Surplus

Following a tough loss to Hapoel Be'er Sheva, Red Star Belgrade is set to face Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League playoff on Thursday. Ahead of the match, new coach Albert Riera held a press conference to discuss his approach to the team roster. Riera stated that he has halted all transfers and emphasized that the squad is currently too large to manage throughout the season, noting, "We will not work with 27 players all season. Everyone will get a chance." He also expressed a desire to play excellent football, including effective play without the ball, and mentioned a positive atmosphere within the team.

Local Serbian media reported that Abu Fani is not a priority for Riera at this time. Representatives close to Abu Fani clarified that he is not interested in returning to Israel. The club appears focused on stabilizing the squad and giving all players opportunities under the new coach's direction as they prepare for their upcoming European fixture.