Israel Prepares for Albania Friendly as Coach Ben Shimon Recovers from Serious Injury

Israel's national football team is preparing to face Albania in a friendly international fixture on Wednesday evening, with head coach Ran Ben Shimon's participation uncertain due to recovery from a serious injury sustained several weeks ago. The squad will depart on Monday following a training session at the national team facility in Shefayim, with some players already assembled and others scheduled to join in Albania.

Coach's Health Status and Leadership Continuity

Ben Shimon disclosed details about his injury recovery, stating that he experienced a serious incident approximately two weeks prior and is undergoing gradual rehabilitation. He received treatment at a major medical facility and remains under medical supervision, with additional diagnostic tests including a head CT scan still required. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his travel capability, the coach expressed confidence in his coaching staff's ability to manage the team effectively during his potential absence.

"Whether I fly or not, I have great trust in my staff. We've matured a bit and understand that the world doesn't revolve around us. The national team is more important than any of us."

Squad Assembly and Player Commitment

The Israeli contingent includes defenders Daniel Peretz and Eli Dasa, midfielder Oscar Gloukh, and forward Roy Revivo, among others. Captain Eli Dasa and forward Manor Solomon are scheduled to link up with the group in Albania. Ben Shimon highlighted an unusual level of player enthusiasm, noting that participants expressed strong desire to join the squad despite having completed an intensive domestic season with some players participating in approximately 50 matches.

Match Context and Competitive Approach

While officially designated as a friendly match, Ben Shimon emphasized that the fixture serves as a crucial preparation phase for the UEFA Nations League campaign launching in September. He outlined specific developmental objectives the team intends to work toward during the encounter. Albanian forward Cristian Shpendi, currently with Cesena, received selection for the Eagles' squad under head coach Rolando Maran for this fixture and a subsequent friendly against Luxembourg scheduled for Monday.