Maccabi Haifa Players Shocked by Coach Barak Bakhar's Resignation

Maccabi Haifa coach Barak Bakhar announced his resignation live on air Saturday following a devastating 4-0 home loss to Maccabi Netanya. The decision surprised the players, who learned of his departure through the media while in the locker room after the match. Bakhar had already decided to resign before the game and met with club president Yaakov Shahar, professional manager Lior Refaelov, and CEO Itzik Ovadia to inform them of his decision.

Shahar addressed the team, stating that the players shared responsibility for Bakhar's resignation and that the team needed "new blood." He praised Bakhar's contributions and assured the players that the "door will always be open" for him, expressing faith in the team and that the season was not over. Bakhar then spoke to the players, emphasizing the need to know when to part ways and wishing them success.

While the players were surprised, many had anticipated Bakhar's exit after a string of three consecutive losses, culminating in the particularly painful home defeat. One player described the team's second-half performance as "exposed" and "miserable," highlighting the need for change.

Following the announcement, assistant coach David Marten will lead a practice session, replacing the team's scheduled day off. Despite Shahar's disappointment with the recent results and the season's start, Refaelov will remain in his position as professional manager, despite calls for his dismissal. Refaelov and Shahar will now be responsible for selecting Bakhar's successor, with leading candidates reportedly being Barak Itzhaki, currently coaching Anorthosis, and Omer Peretz, coach of Hapoel Petah Tikva.