Nissan Kniyas Predicts Beitar Jerusalem to Win Israeli Premier League 2026/27 Season

As the Israeli Premier League 2026/27 season kicks off on August 22, Nissan Kniyas offers his predictions for the upcoming campaign. He forecasts Beitar Jerusalem to claim the championship, citing their solid reinforcement and readiness to improve on last season's runner-up finish. Kniyas notes that defending champions Hapoel Be'er Sheva, despite securing European competition and likely qualifying for the Champions League, will find it challenging to retain their title.

Regarding relegation, Kniyas expects Ironi Tiberias and Hapoel Jerusalem to drop out of the top division. He highlights Tiberias' struggles due to ongoing controversies and point deductions, while Hapoel Jerusalem appears to be entering the season in a weaker state after years under coach Ziv Arie.

Kniyas names Beitar Jerusalem's Omer Atzili as the season's best player and Hapoel Be'er Sheva's Lucas Ventura as the top foreign player, expressing surprise that Ventura has not yet been transferred abroad. He predicts Igor Zlatanovic of Hapoel Be'er Sheva will be the league's top scorer, especially if Adrian Ugarriza is sold mid-season. The breakout player is expected to be Yaad Gonen of Hapoel Haifa, praised for his technical skills and intelligence.

Conversely, Douglas Aveso of Hapoel Tel Aviv is projected as the season's biggest disappointment, given the high expectations following his €2.5 million transfer. Kniyas also lists his ideal starting eleven, featuring players from Beitar Jerusalem, Hapoel Be'er Sheva, Hapoel Tel Aviv, Maccabi Tel Aviv, Maccabi Haifa, and Maccabi Netanya.

He predicts the top playoff six as Beitar Jerusalem, Hapoel Tel Aviv, Hapoel Be'er Sheva, Maccabi Tel Aviv, Maccabi Haifa, and Maccabi Netanya. The season begins with three matches, including Maccabi Haifa hosting Hapoel Ramat Gan at Sammy Ofer Stadium.