Former Maccabi Haifa Defender Recalls Surprising Welcome in Israel

Edin Cocalić, a Bosnian defender who played for Maccabi Haifa for three years between January 2012 and winter 2015, has reflected on his career and his surprising experience in Israel. Cocalić made 95 appearances for the club, scoring three goals, before leaving for French side FC Metz. He recently retired from active play and discussed his time in Israel during an interview in Bosnia.

Cocalić explained his move to Maccabi Haifa stemmed from financial difficulties at his previous club, Panionios in Greece. With salaries becoming irregular and a young child to support, he sought a stable opportunity. Despite an offer from AEK Athens, the financial situation at Panionios necessitated a move for funds. He received a lucrative offer from Maccabi Haifa, a club he described as being compared to Real Madrid in Israel, offering a chance to prove himself.

Despite initial apprehension due to negative perceptions of Israel, Cocalić was pleasantly surprised by his reception. He recalled being taken to an Arab restaurant in the Muslim quarter of the city upon arrival, a gesture he felt was intended to show him the reality of the place. He noted that Muslim players observed Ramadan without issue and that everyone was treated with basic respect, regardless of their religion. "For one moment I did not feel different because I come from another religion. In that sense, the experience was completely positive," he stated.

Cocalić praised Maccabi Haifa as a well-run, large club, highlighting the respect, conditions, and treatment afforded to players. He described Haifa as a beautiful city with abundant sunshine and a club that consistently competed for the championship. He acknowledged the strength of rivals Maccabi Tel Aviv but maintained fond memories of his time with the Greens, calling it a positive experience overall.