Maccabi Haifa Seeks Innovative Foreign Coach After Bakhar's Departure

Maccabi Haifa is actively searching for a new head coach following the resignation of Barak Bakhar, aiming to appoint someone by next week. The club is primarily focusing on foreign candidates, with dozens of coaches having been proposed over the past week, including some with prior experience in Israel. Professional manager Lior Refaelov is looking for a coach with an innovative, offensive approach who can instill a proactive style of play that complements the current squad and tactical system.

While Israeli candidates are not being considered at this stage, this could change if a suitable foreign option isn't found. The club's objective is to secure a permanent coach, at least through the end of the 2026/27 season, believing the current roster is capable of competing for both the league championship and the cup.

The team's first match after the international break is scheduled for November 28. If a new coach is appointed by mid-next week, they will have approximately 10 to 11 days to work with the players before this crucial game. In the interim, the team has been training under assistant coach David Marten, who previously served under Bakhar. Players were given a few days off for the international break, with training set to resume next week, potentially under the guidance of a new manager.