Maccabi Haifa Evaluates Pedrão's Form Ahead of New Season

Maccabi Haifa concluded their 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 Pedrão appeared rusty during the match, raising concerns about his form. With the recent departure of Lisb Assat and the injury of Elad Amir, the coming weeks will be critical for Pedrão to prove his value. Due to his expensive transfer and high salary, the club plans to give him a chance to improve; otherwise, they may seek to sign a foreign defender at his expense.

Goalkeeper Giorgi Yermakov underperformed and seems resigned to his transfer to Metalist Kharkiv, although no agreement has been finalized yet. Meanwhile, Omri Glazer is still working on his release from Red Star Belgrade. On a positive note, players Yarin Mordechai, Eitan Azulai, and Itai Ehud impressed the coaching staff, with Mordechai scoring in two consecutive games. New signing Bruninho also showed promising quality moves, and the club believes he will contribute significantly.

Coach Barak Bachar's squad will begin preparations for the Toto Cup derby against Hapoel Haifa at the end of July, marking the start of the 2026/27 season. The club is closely monitoring player performances to finalize the roster for the upcoming campaign.