Barak Itzhaki Takes Helm at Anorthosis Amidst Club Crisis

Israeli coach Barak Itzhaki has begun a new chapter in his coaching career with his appointment at Anorthosis Famagusta in Cyprus. The 42-year-old, who previously played for the club in the 2012/13 season, takes over a team struggling in 13th place out of 14 in the league standings. Despite the difficult situation, Itzhaki's prior connection to the club has generated some positive sentiment among fans and local media.

Cypriot media have noted that Itzhaki's selection is welcomed by a significant portion of the fanbase, who recall his successful playing tenure and believe his familiarity with the club's demands will be beneficial compared to a foreign coach. However, the media also acknowledge the immense challenge ahead, emphasizing Itzhaki's immediate need to restore professional stability, fighting spirit, and confidence to a squad capable of a much higher league position. Anorthosis hopes Itzhaki, who led Hapoel Jerusalem to a league title challenge last season, can steer them out of their current crisis.

Further reports highlight that Itzhaki's primary task is not just tactical but also psychological, aiming to transform the locker room's mindset and rebuild player confidence. The club's management is reportedly placing significant hope in his personality and understanding of the club's ethos, stemming from his successful playing days. Meanwhile, the players are under intense pressure, with club president Christos Maragkos attending a training session to express dissatisfaction with recent performances. Around 200 ultra fans also protested, blaming the players and the previous coach, Nestor El Maestro, for the team's plight.

Itzhaki has already commenced his duties, observing players in his first training session and is expected to implement his professional demands starting immediately. He is joined by Borja Llama, a familiar face in Israeli football from his interim coaching role at Hapoel Tel Aviv. Anorthosis anticipates Itzhaki will bring his winning mentality from his playing days to the sidelines, aiming to return the team to winning ways.

Itzhaki's debut match on Saturday against Omonia Aradippou presents a unique storyline, as he will face Yiannis Okkas, his former Anorthosis teammate from the 2012/13 season, who now coaches the opposing team. This reunion, 13 years after they shared the dressing room, offers Itzhaki an opportunity to start his new tenure on a positive note at the Antonis Papadopoulos Stadium.