Former Maccabi Tel Aviv Striker Stipe Perica Thriving in Uzbekistan

Former Maccabi Tel Aviv striker Stipe Perica, who played for the Israeli club in the 2021/22 season before a contentious departure, has become a leading player in the Uzbek league. Perica is enjoying his best season since leaving Maccabi Tel Aviv, scoring 15 goals in 27 matches across all competitions for his club, Neftchi Fergana, and is on track to win the league championship. This marks a career-high in scoring for the Croatian forward.

Perica expressed satisfaction with his current team, stating, "We have a good team and an excellent coach. We are doing things correctly, the team is developing." He also highlighted his fulfillment of a personal dream to play in the AFC Champions League, which led him to Neftchi Fergana. He scored one goal against Tractor in the AFC Champions League.

His current contract is set to expire in December, but sources indicate a high likelihood of renewal, as Perica has expressed contentment with the club and its fans. His estimated salary is around 300,000 euros per season, a figure that could be considered by Israeli Premier League clubs. Perica joined Neftchi Fergana in February, following a stint with Dinamo Bucharest.