Maccabi Netanya Coach Roni Levi Faces Key Lineup Decision Ahead of Season Opener

Maccabi Netanya is preparing for its Israeli Premier League season opener against Bnei Sakhnin on Monday. Under coach Roni Levi, the team has had a strong preseason, reaching the Toto Cup semi-finals, and aims to start the league with a home victory and secure a spot in the upper playoff bracket this season.

One player drawing attention is midfielder Basem Za'aroura, who has impressed since earning a starting role from Levi. Za'aroura's performances have sparked interest from Hungarian club Ferencváros and Hapoel Be'er Sheva. Despite this external interest, Za'aroura is expected to start in midfield alongside Maor Levi and Aziz Outtara in the upcoming match.

Levi has largely settled on a consistent starting lineup used during the Toto Cup games, but faces a key decision regarding the left winger position. In three of the last four matches, young Yarin Abuhatzeira started there, but in the semi-final against Maccabi Tel Aviv, he was substituted at halftime for new signing Dolev Haziza, who joined from Maccabi Haifa. This choice between Abuhatzeira and Haziza remains the main tactical dilemma for Levi ahead of the league opener.