Another Israeli team is looking for a stadium to host their matches in European competitions. After a minor "fire" caused by the authorities of the Municipal Arena of Culture and Sports in Łódź over the last few days, it's time for more information.

Will the agreement be signed?

Last night, the portal Meczyki.pl reported that Maccabi Tel Aviv wants to play their Champions League qualifying matches at Cracovia's stadium. According to Samuel Szczygielski, the talks are in the final stages and the matter will soon be finalized.

Regarding the information about the Widzew and ŁKS stadiums, the clubs almost immediately distanced themselves from the issue and redirected the responsibility to the Municipal Arena of Culture and Sports, which is responsible for organizing events at the Łódź facilities. Ultimately, this idea was withdrawn.

Cracovia has not yet commented on the media reports, although fans are expressing their frustration by commenting on other posts of the club, including on the X portal. Cracovia accepting any team from Israel would be immoral, selling out for a few shekels, wrote one fan.

© Grzegorz Kaliciak 

Problems also in Chorzów and Częstochowa

Friendly matches between Ruch Chorzów (July 3) and Raków Częstochowa (July 6) against Maccabi Tel Aviv were scheduled for early July. As expected, the fans of both Polish clubs began to sharply criticize the fact of playing these matches. A firm no to playing a match with a team from a country that commits war crimes and genocide against civilians in the Gaza Strip, and whoever thought of this should reconsider because it's a shot in the foot!!! reads one comment. Although there are others calling for the separation of sports and politics. A great preparatory match with a team that practically plays in Europe every year. It’s been a long time since we had such a match, and only such matches should happen, not against some Rekord and Puszcza, wrote one of the Niebiescy fans.

The clubs have not commented on the fans' reactions. However, we can expect a lot to happen regarding Israeli clubs in the near future. We are primarily waiting for developments in Krakow.

© Grzegorz Kaliciak