Sagiv Jehezkel, the Israeli Soccer star abruptly released from Turkish club Antalyaspor following his gesture to commemorate a 100 days for the hostages held in Gaza, may have just found a new home, courtesy of Panathinaikos.
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The Greek giants are apparently interested in securing the player's services, but then again, reports indicate he may move across the Atlantic, with two Major League Soccer clubs bidding for him.
Jehezkel, who moved to Turkey from Hapoel Be'er Sheva during the last transfer window, was signed on a contract for three more years, to the tune of €450,000 a season. In the dozen appearances for the Turkish team, he scored six goals.
Despite initial speculation that he might consider returning to Israel after being expelled by the Turkish authorities, the player seems set to make the most of this momentum in his professional career and continue playing abroad, potentially even securing an improved contract.
The United States has emerged as a preferred destination for Jehezkel due to time constraints, as the MLS transfer window is set to open next month and will remain active until April. Additionally, unlike European football institutions that restrict players from representing more than two teams in a season, FIFA regulations do not require special approval for a move to the MLS, though Jehezkel's situation is unique.
In the event that he decides not to move to the MLS, he will likely submit a request to FIFA, seeking permission to explore alternative destinations in Europe or Israel.
Panathinaikos, the second-place team in the Greek league, has expressed interest in recruiting Jehezkel and is prepared to offer a salary of approximately half a million euros. However, if he fails to secure a spot with another team or does not receive exceptional approval from FIFA, it is likely that he will ultimately return to Hapoel in Beer-Sheva.
There is also the possibility that the Turkish Federation may take legal action against Jehezkel, accusing him of being involved in propaganda, which could result in him being banned from several matches. In response, it is expected that the player will appeal this decision to the European football institutions.