Maccabi Haifa President Denies Transfer Plans for Yarin Levi

Maccabi Haifa President Yaakov Shahar issued a rare, unequivocal statement on Wednesday, confirming that midfielder Yarin Levi will remain with the club. This declaration comes amid widespread speculation linking the 21-year-old player to a potential return to Beitar Jerusalem, where he previously played and excelled for two seasons. Hapoel Be'er Sheva was also mentioned as a possible destination for the young player, but Shahar moved to end the rumors.

In his statement, Shahar emphasized that Levi is a product of Maccabi Haifa's youth academy and highlighted the club's strong belief in his potential. He expressed confidence that Levi will achieve success and bring pride to the club and its fans, stating there was never any intention to discuss his transfer. Shahar concluded by asserting that all decisions regarding players are made solely in the best interest of the club and extended New Year wishes to the entire Maccabi Haifa family.

Levi, who joined Maccabi Haifa at age 14, made his senior debut in August 2023. His significant breakthrough occurred during his loan spell at Beitar Jerusalem in the summer of 2024, where he became a standout young player in the Israeli Premier League and was named the 2024/25 Breakthrough Player of the Season. After another loan season where he became a key player and a fan favorite, Levi returned to Maccabi Haifa this summer with a strong emotional connection to the club.

Levi's return to Maccabi Haifa this season was marked by a tense incident that contributed to the surrounding tension. At the traditional opening training session, which typically involves fans entering the field, Levi was initially welcomed with great affection. However, the atmosphere soured when fans asked the player to sing a song disparaging his former club. Levi's refusal to comply was met with significant anger from the green supporters, who cursed the player and created a complex situation.