Hapoel Tel Aviv Favored to Win 2026/27 Israeli Premier League with Ruben as Player of the Year

The 2026/27 Israeli Premier League season is approaching rapidly, with high expectations following a successful summer for Israeli players in Europe. Football analyst Lachman predicts a competitive and high-quality league, forecasting Hapoel Tel Aviv as the champion. Under coach Aliniv Breda, Hapoel Tel Aviv is seen as the most mature and strongest team, boasting a stable defense, promising young talents like Roy Alcokin and Amit Lamkin, and a breakout player, Mor Buskila. The team’s strength lies in its collective play rather than reliance on a single star.

The standout player of the season is expected to be Israeli winger Omer Atzili of Beitar Jerusalem, who scored 19 goals last season and remains a key figure in the title race. Among foreign players, three are highlighted as top contenders: Javon East of Hapoel Be’er Sheva, known for his strength and scoring ability; Chico, a left-footed defender flourishing under Breda at Hapoel Tel Aviv; and Matheus Dabo, a speedy forward who scored 12 goals last season and is expected to lead Maccabi Netanya to the upper playoffs. The top scorer is predicted to be striker Mardintzki, who will fill the shoes of Said Abu Farhi at Hapoel Tel Aviv.

Two promising players from Hapoel Ramat Gan, Daniel Vorko and Mor Buskila, are expected to make significant impacts this season. Despite Hapoel Tel Aviv’s strong outlook, Maccabi Haifa is forecasted to disappoint due to poor squad building and an overabundance of defensive midfielders, which could lead to a lack of creativity. The club’s impatience with foreign players may also hinder performance.

The projected top six teams are Hapoel Tel Aviv, Hapoel Be’er Sheva, Beitar Jerusalem, Maccabi Tel Aviv, Maccabi Haifa, and Maccabi Netanya. The season’s best lineup includes goalkeeper Ofir Marciano, defenders Shagiv Yehezkel, Brian Crabli, Chico, Ariel Mandi, midfielders Lucas Ventura, Eliel Peretz, Dor Peretz, and forwards Omer Atzili, Astr Sukler, and Matheus Dabo.

Lachman emphasizes the importance of stability and continuity, especially for Israeli players adapting to the league, which should help Hapoel Tel Aviv surprise many and secure a top-three finish.