Maccabi Haifa Prepares for Hapoel Petah Tikva Amidst Transfer Speculation

Maccabi Haifa held a training session on Thursday in preparation for their upcoming match against Hapoel Petah Tikva at Sammy Ofer Stadium on Saturday. The team is looking to rebound after a disappointing 3-1 loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv earlier in the week. Coach Barak Bakhar is expected to make several changes to the starting lineup, with Ali Mohamed likely to replace Yarin Levi in midfield. Mohamed, who came on as a substitute in the previous game and improved the team's performance, is anticipated to bring more strength and aggression to the midfield.

Other potential changes include wingers Iyad Hallaili and Yair Mordechai, and striker Andrija Novakovich might start over Silva Kani. Striker Guy Melamed is set to return to the squad after recovering from a calf injury and participating in full training. Despite reports linking Melamed with a move to Maccabi Tel Aviv, Maccabi Haifa stated that no official offer has been received. Melamed's camp also indicated he has not requested to leave the club. However, given his reduced role, developments regarding his future are possible before the transfer window closes in two weeks. Melamed, 33, has a contract worth 350,000 euros net, and Maccabi Tel Aviv is reportedly willing to offer him a similar deal.