Eli Dasa began a new chapter in his career this week after signing a two-year deal with Maccabi Haifa. Following his first training session with the Greens, the right-back discussed his excitement about joining the club, the atmosphere within the squad, and his physical condition after spending several months without a team.

“I’m really, really happy,” Dasa said. “Today was my first day with the players, and I finally got to be out on the pitch with them. Maccabi Haifa is a historic club in Israeli football, a huge club that’s always hungry for titles. It’s not just about winning the league or the State Cup, but also the Toto Cup, the Super Cup and every other competition. And, of course, there’s the atmosphere at Sammy Ofer Stadium and the fans. I’m really excited and can’t wait to meet them.”

Maccabi Haifa has won four consecutive games and is enjoying a strong run of form, something Dasa is happy to be joining. However, the experienced defender knows there will also be difficult moments along the way.

“I’m happy to be joining when the team is on an upward trajectory. I’m someone who embraces the difficult moments, and there will be some along the way. That’s part of football at every club. Things look really good here, but there’s always room to take another step forward.”

Dasa was also impressed by the people around the club, highlighting the shared ambition within the squad as the Greens look to build on their recent success.

“There are people here who really know their jobs, are hungry for success and want to help the club achieve great things. There’s a great group of guys, good players and good young people. We’re all working toward the same goal, and hopefully that will translate into success on the pitch.”

Despite spending several months without a club, Dasa believes he has maintained the fitness and training standards necessary to make an immediate impact. Having recently featured for the Israel national team, the right-back is eager to get back into action.

“I knew that if I was going to take on a challenge like spending three or four months without a club, I had to be honest with myself and make sure I could maintain my training and fitness levels. I wanted to be in a position where, as soon as I signed, I’d be ready to play.

“If you ask me, we could put Maccabi Petah Tikva out on the pitch right now, and I’d be ready to play. I feel good, and everything would be fine. I really enjoyed today. It was great to see the guys, and now I’m just looking forward to meeting the fans.”