Maccabi Tel Aviv's Said Abu Farhi Nears MLS Transfer Before Crucial Europa Match

Maccabi Tel Aviv began their 2026/27 Israeli Premier League season with a commanding 5-2 victory over Hapoel Jerusalem on August 23, 2026, at the Rehovot Stadium. Following this strong start, the team's focus shifts to their critical Europa Conference League second-leg match against Swiss club Lugano. Maccabi Tel Aviv travels to Switzerland on Wednesday aiming to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg.

Key player Léo Varela, who was substituted in the league match against Hapoel Jerusalem, is expected to be fit for the upcoming European fixture, according to the club's medical staff. However, striker Said Abu Farhi may not participate in the match as he has completed all bureaucratic procedures for a transfer to Colorado Rapids in Major League Soccer (MLS). Abu Farhi is likely to leave the club before the match scheduled for Thursday.

The club praised Abu Farhi's professionalism and commitment, highlighting his eagerness to play every game and make the most of his remaining time with Maccabi despite the impending transfer. Notably, Abu Farhi was the player who replaced Ofek Malika late in the league game, possibly marking his final appearance for the team. The club values his dedication during the transition period as he awaited the completion of his move to the United States.