Maccabi Haifa Considers Firing Coach Barak Bachar After Poor Start

Maccabi Haifa is reportedly considering parting ways with head coach Barak Bachar following a disappointing start to the league season. The team's recent 3-1 loss to rivals Maccabi Tel Aviv on Monday, coupled with a weak opening to the campaign, has intensified pressure on Bachar. Despite an opening-day win against Hapoel Ramat Gan, the defeat to Maccabi Tel Aviv has amplified scrutiny, with Bachar bearing a significant portion of the criticism from fans and club officials.

If Bachar is dismissed, Maccabi Haifa is expected to pursue a foreign head coach, potentially with an Israeli assistant. Bachar returned to Maccabi Haifa in October 2025, having been fired the previous season after a derby defeat. He replaced Diego Flores, who was dismissed after only seven league matches. However, even after Bachar's return, the team finished fifth, failing to contend for the championship.

The current season has also seen struggles in the Toto Cup, with Maccabi Haifa suffering three losses in five matches against Hapoel Haifa, Ironi Kiryat Shmona, and Hapoel Jerusalem. Overall, in the seven official games this season, the team has conceded 13 goals, and its offensive performance has been unconvincing.

Following the loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv, a club source criticized Bachar's decision-making, stating, "Barak makes unclear decisions that cost us dearly. He sometimes tries to be too clever, and it doesn't work." The club is now contemplating a coaching change very early in the season, which could lead to Bachar's second departure from the team.