Maccabi Haifa Announces Release of Several Players Including Rafaelov

Maccabi Haifa is undergoing a significant squad reduction ahead of the new season. Lior Rafaelov, the club's sporting director, held individual meetings with several players to inform them they are free to seek new teams and will not be part of the upcoming season's roster. The players notified include Mathias Nahuel, Shaw, Peter Agaba, Tribenta Stewart, Daniel Golani, Goni Naor, and Dolev Haziza. While most of these decisions were expected, the release of left-back Daniel Golani is surprising given the team's current shortage in that position due to long-term injuries to Pierre Cornu and Yinon Feingezicht, leaving Maccabi Haifa temporarily without a natural left defender.

Despite being told they can look for new clubs, the players will continue to receive their full contractual benefits, including salary, housing, and car, and will train fully with professional, physiological, and medical staff support. Some training sessions will be led by head coach Barak Bachar. Dolev Haziza, however, will continue training with the first team due to his status and long-standing contribution to the club. This restructuring reflects Maccabi Haifa's efforts to streamline the squad ahead of the new season in the Israeli Premier League.