Maccabi Haifa Coach Search Hinges on Lior Refaelov, Says Analyst

Maccabi Haifa is in turmoil following coach Barak Bakhar's live televised resignation, prompting an urgent search for a new manager. Football commentator Giovanni Rosso stated on the "Kickoff" podcast that the decision is imminent, likely within days. Rosso clarified that player Lior Refaelov, contrary to some speculation, had no influence on the appointments of previous coaches Diego Flores or Barak Bakhar, as they were under contract. Rosso emphasized that this is Refaelov's first opportunity to bring in a coach of his choosing during his tenure.

Rosso explained the role of a sporting director, which involves presenting player options to the coach, who then makes the final selection. He identified a critical weakness in Maccabi Haifa's defense, specifically the "number six" position, as the team's main problem, rather than just the back four. He also critiqued the team's defensive strategy, particularly in their recent match against Netanya, and singled out player Eli Dasa for focusing too much on offense while playing defense.

Rosso believes Maccabi Haifa should not play with three center-backs, citing the negative results. He asserted that it is now Refaelov's time to prove himself, stating Refaelov did not want Bakhar as coach. Rosso predicted a new coach would be appointed by Thursday or Friday.

Addressing rumors about potential candidates, Rosso dismissed them as "bullshit," calling all publicly discussed names a "bluff." He suggested that if club owner Yaakov Shahar approves Refaelov's choice, an Israeli coach might be appointed, but he was uncertain if Shahar would agree. Rosso also commented on Refaelov's game-day positioning, suggesting he should be closer to analysts or on the bench, and defended the club's management structure, stating that decisions are not dictated from above by Yaakov Shahar.