Maccabi Haifa Coach Search Hinges on Lior Refaelov's Choice, Says Giovanni Rosso

Giovanni Rosso, a former player and sports director for Maccabi Haifa, stated that the club's upcoming coaching appointment is imminent, potentially within days. Rosso, speaking on the "Kickoff" podcast, asserted that for the first time during Lior Refaelov's tenure, the player will have a significant say in who leads the team from the sidelines. Rosso clarified that previous coaches, including Barak Bakhar and Diego Flores, were not solely Refaelov's appointments, and Bakhar's return was contingent on his existing contract.

Rosso explained the dynamics of player recruitment, emphasizing that the coach ultimately chooses from options provided by the sports director. He also addressed perceived weaknesses in Maccabi Haifa's defense, particularly the "number six" position, and criticized the team's tactical approach in a recent match against Netanya, suggesting a three-defender formation was inappropriate and that players like Eli Dasa were overly focused on offense.

Rosso believes Refaelov now has the opportunity to prove himself by selecting a coach of his preference. He dismissed rumors about potential coaching candidates as "bullshit," suggesting that if owner Yaakov Shahar agrees to Refaelov's choice, an Israeli coach might be appointed. 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 Shahar.