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Ongoing Story· Day 27

Maccabi Haifa Director Surprised by Calls for Resignation

2 developments

MakoSports

Maccabi Haifa Coach Search: Lior Refaelov's Influence Key

Translated & summarized from Mako by baba

CenterNeutral tone

Hebrew · 1 newsroom

Maccabi Haifa is searching for a new coach after Barak Bakhar's resignation, with player Lior Refaelov expected to influence the decision for the first time. Former official Giovanni Rosso believes a new manager will be appointed by the end of the week. Rosso identified a weak defensive midfielder as the team's main issue and suggested an Israeli coach could be hired if Refaelov's choice is approved by owner Yaakov Shahar.

The story in 5 lines · by baba

  • Lior Refaelov will influence Maccabi Haifa's next coach appointment for the first time.
  • Giovanni Rosso believes a new coach will be named by Thursday or Friday.
  • A lack of a strong defensive midfielder is identified as Maccabi Haifa's main problem.
  • Rosso dismissed rumors about potential coaching candidates as "nonsense."
  • An Israeli coach may be appointed if Lior Refaelov's choice is approved by owner Yaakov Shahar.

Maccabi Haifa is actively seeking a new coach following the unexpected resignation of Barak Bakhar, which has stirred the Israeli football scene. Former player and sports director Giovanni Rosso stated on the "Kickoff" podcast that the club is likely to appoint a new manager within days, possibly by Thursday or Friday.

Rosso emphasized that this coaching appointment marks a significant moment for player Lior Refaelov, as it will be the first time during his tenure that he will have a say in who leads the team from the sidelines. Rosso clarified that previous coaches, Diego Flores and Barak Bakhar, were not Refaelov's appointments. He explained that Bakhar's return was due to his existing contract, and that Refaelov did not initially want Bakhar as coach.

Rosso also discussed the team's performance issues, pointing to a lack of a strong defensive midfielder as the primary problem, rather than just the defense or wing play. He criticized the team's strategy, particularly the use of three defenders and the offensive focus of players like Eli Dasa, stating that Maccabi Haifa should not play with three center-backs.

Regarding the coaching search, Rosso suggested that if club owner Yaakov Shahar agrees to Refaelov's choice, an Israeli coach will be appointed. He dismissed rumors about potential candidates as "nonsense" and "a bluff." Rosso also addressed Refaelov's position during games, stating he should be near the analysts or on the bench, and that decisions are not dictated from above by Shahar, contrary to what some might believe.

MakoCentre · Neve Ilan

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