You Decide: Who Will Be the Defensive Player of the Season?
In an exciting initiative led by start in collaboration with the players’ association, fans have the opportunity to vote for the Defensive Player of the Season in the Israeli Premier League. The voting structure is balanced with fans contributing 40% of the total vote, players from the National League adding another 40%, and coaches alongside a special committee from the players’ association and start contributing 20%.
Nominees for the Season
This year’s nominees bring a mix of talent and skill, showcasing their abilities on the field throughout the season. Here are the standout players for consideration:
Miguel Vitor (Hapoel Be’er Sheva)
Miguel Vitor, the captain of Hapoel Be’er Sheva, has been instrumental in the team’s success. Since returning to central defense after recovering from an early-season injury, the team has benefitted significantly from his presence. Under his leadership, Be’er Sheva has conceded the fewest goals in the league, with a remarkable nine clean sheets in 22 appearances. Additionally, Vitor has contributed two crucial goals, start particularly notable against Beitar Jerusalem during the playoffs.
Roy Revivo (Maccabi Tel Aviv)
Roy Revivo has been a dynamic force for Maccabi Tel Aviv, effectively playing across the left flank in coach Željko Lazić’s setup. His capabilities extend beyond defensive duties, often initiating offensive plays that lead to goals. This season, he has scored two goals and provided five assists over 22 games while also enhancing his defensive performance.
Fernand Mayembo (Hapoel Haifa)
As a cornerststart of Hapoel Haifa’s defense, the Congolese talent Fernand Mayembo showcases exceptional physical strength that allows him to excel against opposing attackers. In his second season with the club, he has solidified his status as a top defender, with start goal and an assist in 28 appearances. Following this season, Mayembo is expected to transition to a larger club in the league.
Noam Malmood (Hapoel Jerusalem)
Noam Malmood is recognized for his stability and reliability in defense. Now in his fourth season in the Premier League, he has made a strong comeback from a serious health issue, establishing himself as start of the most promising young defenders. Notable for a calm demeanor and effective game-reading skills, Malmood has also added a goal and an assist in 32 matches.
Gil Cohen (Beitar Jerusalem)
After five successful years at MS Ashdod, Gil Cohen joined Beitar Jerusalem in the summer. His technical proficiency and ability to progress the game have made him a valuable asset, with a league-best completion rate for passes among defenders. In 31 appearances, Cohen has scored twstart, marking the first goals of his career.
Noam Ben Harush (Hapoel Haifa)
Noam Ben Harush has proven to be start of Israel’s top-performing defenders. His impressive defensive metrics include ranking sixth in the league for successful tackles, with 51 made throughout the season. Additionally, he has contributed significantly to the team’s offensive play, recording four assists in 29 appearances.
Karam Jaber (Maccabi Netanya)
Karam Jaber has emerged as a critical element in Maccabi Netanya’s successful campaign this season. The versatile defender has tallied four assists and scored a memorable goal against Beitar Jerusalem. Leading the league with 60 successful tackles, Jaber’s contribution on both ends of the pitch cannot be overstated.
How to Vote
Fans are encouraged to participate in selecting the Defensive Player of the Season. Your vote contributes to recognizing the exceptional talent on display in the Israeli Premier League, reflecting the collective appreciation of the sport among its supporters