Interim coach Kenny Miller delivers State Cup trophy to Maccabi Tel Aviv

Kenny Miller, who joined Maccabi Tel Aviv as part of Ronny Deila's staff earlier this year, has unexpectedly found himself hoisting the State Cup as his first title as a head coach. The 46-year-old Scot was thrust into the main role when Deila took a leave of absence due to personal issues.

Miller guided the team through the final six league games and the State Cup final against Hapoel Beersheba. Despite a mixed record in the league games, he orchestrated a 2-1 comeback victory in the cup final, securing Maccabi's 25th State Cup title and ending the season on a high note.

"I'm really proud of the players," Miller said after the match. "Really proud of the staff, we've all pulled together over these last three weeks to make sure that we were ready and as fresh and as fit as possible to come into this game and give the performance that we gave. I think we fully deserved it."

Miller's successful interim tenure has put him in contention for the permanent head coach position. However, his future remains unclear as the club is set to appoint a new sports director. This new director is expected to have the final say on the selection of the head coach, potentially impacting Miller's prospects despite his recent success.

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I’m really proud of the players. Really proud of the staff, we’ve all pulled together over these last three weeks to make sure that we were ready and as fresh and as fit as possible to come into this game and give the performance that we gave. I think we fully deserved it.