Maccabi Haifa Owner's Sale Process Ongoing, Says Close Associate
Translated & summarized from Sport5 by baba
Maccabi Haifa's owner has been looking to sell the club for a significant period, with the process remaining open, according to close associate Rafi Osmo. Osmo dismissed fan protests as a factor in the sale and highlighted the owner's positive legacy. He believes the owner will finish the current season and noted recent significant investments, while acknowledging the difficulty of prolonged trophy droughts.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Maccabi Haifa's owner has been seeking to sell the club for a long time, according to associate Rafi Osmo.
- Osmo stated that fan protests did not influence the owner's decision to sell the club.
- The owner transformed Maccabi Haifa into one of Israel's largest clubs since acquiring it in 1992.
- Osmo expressed personal sadness and emotional difficulty regarding the potential sale.
- He is confident the owner will remain in charge through the current season.
- Significant recent investments have been made, including efforts to sign Eli Dasa.
Maccabi Haifa Football Club has been on the market for a considerable time, with its owner's sale process remaining an open topic, according to Rafi Osmo, a former player and close associate of the club's owner. Osmo stated that while a buyer or purchasing group is expected, there is a set price tag. He expressed personal sadness over the potential sale, acknowledging the owner's significant contribution in transforming the club into potentially the largest in Israel since acquiring it in 1992, after initially being a sponsor.
Osmo suggested that the owner's decision to sell is a natural progression as people age, noting that club sales are common. He dismissed the idea that fan protests influenced the sale, emphasizing the owner's deep passion for football, which he displays during games but leaves behind at home. Osmo urged fans to remember the owner's positive legacy and contributions to the club.
Addressing recent professional struggles, Osmo acknowledged the difficulty of prolonged periods without titles, comparing it to situations faced by other major clubs. He praised the fans for their consistent support, filling the stadium even during less successful times, which he sees as a testament to the owner's success in creating an enjoyable, family-friendly sporting atmosphere.
Osmo is confident the owner will remain in charge through the current season, citing significant recent investments, including the pursuit of Israel national team captain Eli Dasa. He likened the owner's approach to sales to a "Volvo" anecdote, suggesting a willingness to sell if the right price is offered. Osmo declined to name specific parties involved in negotiations, stating that any official announcement would come directly from the owner in due course. He reiterated his personal emotional connection to the club, having been involved since childhood and remaining by the owner's side, describing the club as a large, giving family.
