Maccabi Haifa Seeks New Right Winger Amidst Squad Criticism

Maccabi Haifa players returned to training on Wednesday after receiving a day off following their painful 3-1 loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv two days prior at Bloomfield Stadium. The club is still reeling from the defeat, with criticism directed at both the starting lineup and the overall team construction during the summer transfer window. Specific concerns have been raised about the performance of foreign players like Silva Kani, Tsunami, and Nigel Lonwijk, as well as Serbian-American striker Andrea Novakovic, who have yet to make a significant impact. Professional director Lior Raphaelson is also facing scrutiny due to the underperformance of some Israeli and foreign players.

Despite the disappointment, sources within the club insist that coach Barak Bakhar's position is not in jeopardy, though immediate improvement is expected. Ahead of their upcoming match against Hapoel Petah Tikva on Saturday, several lineup changes are anticipated. Players who performed poorly against Maccabi Tel Aviv, including defender Pedroso, Silva Kani, and captain Tjaronn Chery, may be benched. Ali Mohamed, who came on as a substitute against Maccabi Tel Aviv, is expected to start, likely replacing Yarin Levi. Iyad Hallaili and Yair Mordechai are also in contention for starting spots, with Bakhar having two more training sessions to finalize his lineup.

Maccabi Haifa is intensifying efforts to sign an additional foreign player for the right-wing position, recognizing the need to strengthen and upgrade their attacking force. Raphaelson and Bakhar have reviewed several candidates, but the club has not yet secured any of their targets.