Maccabi Haifa Evaluates Pedro Amid Mixed Preseason Performances Ahead of New Season

Maccabi Haifa concluded its training camp in Hungary with a dramatic 3-3 draw against local team Paksi on July 8, 2026. The team led 3-2 but conceded a precise free kick goal just before the final whistle. Brazilian defender Pedro appeared rusty during the match, raising concerns about his form. With the recent departure of Lisb Assat and an injury to Elad Amir, the coming weeks will be critical for Pedro to prove his value, especially given his high transfer fee and salary. The club plans to give him a chance to improve but may seek a foreign defender if he does not show progress.

Goalkeeper Giorgi Yermakov underperformed and seems resigned to his transfer to Metalist Kharkiv, although no agreement has yet been reached between the clubs. Meanwhile, Omri Glazer is still working on his release from Red Star Belgrade. On a positive note, players Yarin Levi, Eitan Azulai, and Itay Ehud impressed during the game, as did Yair Mordechai, who scored his second consecutive goal and caught the coaching staff’s attention. New signing Bruninho also showed promising quality moves, with the club optimistic about his contribution.

Maccabi Haifa, coached by Barak Bachar, will begin preparations for the Toto Cup derby against Hapoel Haifa at the end of July, marking the start of the 2026/27 season.