Dolav Haziza Feels Betrayed by Maccabi Haifa's Management

Dolav Haziza, a prominent player for Maccabi Haifa during their recent championship dynasty, has spoken out about his departure from the club, feeling betrayed by professional manager Lior Rafaelov and head coach Barak Bakhar. Haziza, 31, was informed in the summer that he was no longer in the team's plans, leading to his move to Maccabi Netanya.

In an interview on the "One on One" program with Dani Inbar, Haziza described his exit as abrupt and painful. He stated he did not say goodbye to Rafaelov or Bakhar, feeling deeply hurt by their decision. "You can say that Barak and Lior betrayed me," Haziza commented, adding that he lost faith in them and couldn't continue playing for them. He also mentioned that other players and staff advised him to wait, suggesting he might still be needed, but he felt too wounded to stay.

Haziza explained his choice to join Maccabi Netanya, citing coach Roni Levy's persistent efforts to recruit him. Despite other offers, including from Europe, he was convinced by Levy's strong belief in him. Reflecting on his time at Maccabi Haifa, Haziza called it the greatest part of his career and a dream come true, recalling the excitement he and fellow player Yuval Ashkenazi felt on their first day.

He revealed that he had received good offers from Europe, including from Ferencváros and MLS, after the first championship, but the club's management insisted he stay, calling him a crucial player. Haziza expressed that he might have struggled abroad and felt more connected to Israel. He also detailed a conversation with Rafaelov towards the end of last season where he offered to leave if he was perceived as a problem, emphasizing the club's importance over any individual.

Haziza recounted the meeting where he was informed he was not in the plans, describing it as emotionally difficult. He felt Bakhar, whom he considered a father figure, should have provided a clearer explanation for his departure, especially as a former captain. The player was particularly upset by a media report about his exit appearing shortly after the meeting and by the club's subsequent social media post thanking him for his time, which he felt was premature and disrespectful given he still had a year left on his contract. He also criticized the handling of other players, like Dror Shimshon, and felt the club's management did not treat him with the respect he deserved after seven years of service.