Maccabi Haifa Seeks New Coach Amidst Several Obstacles

Following the dramatic resignation of coach Barak Bakhar, Maccabi Haifa has begun the search for his replacement. One potential option considered was appointing Barak Itzhaki immediately, but this appears unfeasible due to a clause in his contract with Anorthosis Famagusta. Another candidate being evaluated is Omer Peretz, coach of Hapoel Petah Tikva, though he also lacks an immediate release clause. Despite this, Maccabi Haifa believes securing Peretz might be simpler than Itzhaki, and they are expected to approach Hapoel Petah Tikva regarding him, although his arrival is not considered likely.

The name of the U-21 national team coach, Ofir Haim, has also surfaced as a possible candidate. Sharon Mimer, who has not coached since the start of the season, is another option, though the chances are not considered high.

Bakhar announced his resignation in the locker room, stating, "This is a very difficult moment for me, I say this with tears. I feel the team needs a change. I worked very hard to lift this team, but it didn't work out. It hurts me for the fans. I have informed Yaankeleh now that I am resigning. It hurts a lot, but I think this team needs a change. I tried, it didn't work."

He added, "I am at peace with everything I did, but sometimes you have to give up. Maybe it's a kind of... I won't say exhaustion, but it's not working. There is a good, talented team here, it was possible to get more out of this squad, certainly in terms of results. It didn't work. I gave Yaankeleh a big hug, Lior, Itzik. I received all the conditions to succeed, everything I asked for, no one forced me into anything. I love the club, love the people, love the amazing crowd, whose reasons for calling for my resignation I can understand. I take responsibility. I am sure this club will move forward on a new path, because it needs new blood, something different, and I take all the responsibility."

Maccabi Haifa has conceded 11 goals in their last three losses, bringing their total to 20 goals against this season. The four goals conceded against Netanya led to the current turmoil, but one player within the team believes Bakhar was not solely responsible. "With all due respect, Bakhar is not the sole person responsible for determining the playing system, the choice of foreign players, of the central defenders. There is also no left-back and no defensive midfielders. Bakhar was not given the tools to succeed."