Bruninho Becomes Maccabi Haifa's New Star Midfielder
Translated & summarized from Walla by baba
Brazilian midfielder Bruninho has quickly become a key player for Maccabi Haifa, demonstrating strong on-field performance and a commitment to integrating with the team by learning English. The club paid 1.7 million euros for the 26-year-old, who has impressed with his statistics and leadership, drawing comparisons to former star Charon Sherry. His move to Haifa was nearly thwarted by a prior transfer negotiation and a veto from his partner, but ultimately, he joined this summer and has become a vital asset, with the team hoping he leads them to a championship.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Bruninho has rapidly become a key player and leader for Maccabi Haifa since his summer transfer.
- The club paid 1.7 million euros for the 26-year-old Brazilian midfielder.
- Bruninho is actively learning English to better connect with his teammates and the club.
- His performances have drawn comparisons to former Maccabi Haifa great Charon Sherry.
- Bruninho's transfer was almost blocked by a previous deal and a veto from his partner.
- Maccabi Haifa hopes Bruninho will lead them back into championship contention.
Maccabi Haifa's new Brazilian midfielder, Bruninho, has quickly become a pivotal player for the team, demonstrating significant impact both on and off the field since his arrival. Shortly after landing in Israel, Bruninho requested assistance in learning English, a request the club readily accommodated. He now studies English several times a week alongside his training, aiming for fluency by the end of the season. This initiative, while not entirely unique, was particularly important to Bruninho, according to club sources, and was driven by a desire to connect with teammates and become a significant figure within the squad.
Bruninho's ambition to take on a leadership role was evident, stemming from his understanding of his importance as a star player joining after a challenging period for the club. He recognized that talent alone was insufficient and that a greater commitment was needed. Six rounds into the league season, Bruninho appears to be fulfilling this aspiration, with some already comparing his influence to that of former Maccabi Haifa great Charon Sherry.
The club invested a substantial 1.7 million euros in acquiring the 26-year-old midfielder last summer, a move that initially raised eyebrows among fans and commentators concerned about the high transfer fee and his perceived lack of defensive commitment in Ukraine. However, Bruninho, who developed in the Atlético Mineiro academy, has rapidly established himself as the offensive midfield leader under coach Barak Bakhar. His performance in the recent 4-1 victory over Hapoel Jerusalem further solidified the club's belief that he was an excellent acquisition.
Bruninho's move to Maccabi Haifa almost didn't happen. The club had negotiated with him in January but opted to sign Manuel Benson instead. Bruninho was on the verge of joining another Ukrainian team, which would have ended any chance of a move to Haifa, but his partner vetoed that transfer. This summer, Maccabi Haifa seized the opportunity, with his partner now reportedly content with their residence in Tirat Carmel, close to the sea.
Bruninho's statistical output has been impressive, with the club noting his significant contributions in goals, assists, distance covered, and tackles. He was particularly disappointed when an assist to Pedro Brazão was disallowed, highlighting his focus on tangible contributions. Teammates describe him as a great professional and a valuable asset to the team, benefiting from the presence of other Brazilian players and Brazão, who speaks the same language. His integration has been smooth, with Israelis also expressing their fondness for him.
Maccabi Haifa hopes Bruninho's continued strong performances will help them contend for the championship after several lean years, though they are cautious about directly labeling him the new Charon Sherry. They are confident, however, that he is now the undisputed leader on the field.