Young Israeli Midfielder Admits Attitude Issues Hindered Maccabi Haifa Stint

Hamsa Shibli, once considered a promising young talent in Israel, has reflected on his struggles to establish himself at Maccabi Haifa, leading to multiple loan spells, including his current one at Ahi Nazareth.

The 21-year-old midfielder stated in an interview that his previous mentality and approach were not sufficient for a club of Maccabi Haifa's caliber. "My mentality and my attitude were not good enough for a club like Maccabi Haifa, and today I see myself and have completely changed that," Shibli said.

He expressed confidence in his current abilities, believing he is worthy of a place at Maccabi Haifa. "I am worthy of being there, and that's why this year I chose Ahi Nazareth, to have a good season, get numbers, help the team achieve its goals. God willing, next year I will be there and prove to everyone that I belong at these levels and at Maccabi Haifa."

Shibli also addressed comparisons to other young Israeli national team stars who have broken through, asserting his belief in his own talent. "Honestly, I am sure that I am not inferior to any player here in the country. Everyone has their own path, what they need to go through in life. I am not stressed, I do not regret what is happening, this is a path to go through. It only strengthens me and opens my eyes to what to do next to reach the levels I dream of."

He reiterated his commitment to personal growth, stating, "I have unequivocally changed my attitude and my mentality. God willing, I believe in myself a lot, that I will break through and take a leap forward. I will reach the levels I think and dream of. Regarding contracts, I am less interested in that, I have an agent who deals with it. I am focused on being good on the field, and that's it. I will do it big, I believe in myself a lot."