Ex-Coach Klinger Suggests Lior Refaelov Coach Maccabi Haifa

Former coach and pundit Nir Klinger has proposed that Lior Refaelov, a current player, should take over as the head coach of Maccabi Haifa. Klinger made these remarks on the program "Yatzi HaItunaiot" (The Press Box) following the recent resignation of Barak Bakhar from the coaching position.

Klinger stated he was not surprised by Bakhar's departure, suggesting the coach had been struggling with the situation. He praised Bakhar as one of Israel's best coaches but noted he was in a difficult period, citing issues with Maccabi Haifa's management and concessions made to Refaelov. Klinger also questioned the team's recent victories against weaker opponents.

Addressing the idea of hiring a foreign coach, Klinger argued that top Israeli clubs like Maccabi Haifa, Maccabi Tel Aviv, and Beitar Jerusalem require coaches with specific character traits and immediate impact, leaving no time for lengthy building processes. He implied that many coaches lack the necessary qualities to succeed under the immense pressure at these clubs.

Klinger drew a comparison to Maccabi Tel Aviv, highlighting their consistent professional management structure with figures like Jordi Cruyff, Ben Mansford, and Steven Vahran. He pointed out that Refaelov, while a great player, has no coaching experience, and professional management requires a developmental process, unlike the situation with Almog Cohen who started at a club with less pressure.

Klinger suggested that Refaelov could potentially overcome his lack of a professional coaching license and serve as Maccabi Haifa's coach and professional manager for three to four years. He also commented on the team's defensive needs, stating they require two immediate, high-caliber central defenders. Klinger mentioned that potential Israeli candidates like Barak Itzhaki and Omer Peretz are either unavailable or, in Peretz's case, lack sufficient experience.