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

Maccabi Tel Aviv started their 2026/27 Israeli Premier League season strongly with a 5-2 victory over Hapoel Jerusalem on August 23, 2026. Following this win, the team is now focusing on their important upcoming European campaign, specifically the second leg against Swiss club Lugano. Maccabi Tel Aviv will travel to Switzerland on Wednesday aiming to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg.

A key development ahead of this match is the likely departure of striker Said Abu Farhi, who has completed the necessary paperwork for a transfer to Colorado Rapids in Major League Soccer (MLS). Abu Farhi may leave the club before the crucial game scheduled for Thursday. The club praised his professionalism and commitment, highlighting that he insisted on continuing to participate in matches while awaiting his transfer. He even stepped in as goalkeeper during the final minutes of the recent league match after a teammate was sent off, marking what could be his last appearance for Maccabi.

Regarding the squad's fitness, medical staff expect midfielder Léo Varela to be fit for the return leg against Lugano, after he was substituted in the recent league match. The team is hopeful to advance in the European competition despite the first-leg setback.

Maccabi Tel Aviv's management and fans are closely watching these developments as the club balances player transitions with the demands of both domestic and European competitions.