Maccabi Haifa Signs Serbian-American Striker Andrea Novakovic Amid Mixed Italian Reviews

Andrea Novakovic, the 29-year-old Serbian-American striker, has officially signed with Maccabi Haifa after spending seven years playing in Italy. His recent years were spent in Serie B, with his last club being Reggiana during the 2025/26 season. Novakovic joined Reggiana from Venezia for around half a million euros on a two-year contract but left by mutual consent after one season following the team's relegation to Serie C. He scored five goals in 33 appearances, with local fans blaming the club's management rather than him for the poor season. Critics noted his poor finishing, especially after a crucial missed chance in a derby against Modena.

Before Reggiana, Novakovic played for Bari in the 2024/25 season on loan from Venezia, scoring three goals and providing two assists in 28 appearances. His time there was marked by a lack of impact and poor relations with the coach, leading to the club not exercising a purchase option. Fans and media labeled him as "the striker who never convinced." However, his best period came during the 2023/24 season at Lecce, despite the team’s relegation. He scored six goals in 38 appearances and earned strong support from fans for his work ethic and determination as a lone striker in a defensive setup.

Novakovic’s stint at Venezia in 2022 was less successful, with only one goal in 37 appearances and a quick exit through loans. Fans viewed him as a failed signing. Overall, Italian media and supporters describe him as a classic target man: tall, physical, strong in aerial duels, and hardworking. Yet, his chronic finishing issues and low scoring record, 15 league goals in four seasons, are concerns. Two of his recent teams were relegated while he was a forward, and pressure to deliver goals has exposed his weaknesses.

Maccabi Haifa coach Barak Bachar faces the challenge of building Novakovic’s confidence and integrating him effectively. The hope is that the Israeli Premier League will help improve his scoring stats. Regardless, Novakovic is expected to bring relentless effort and physical presence to the team’s attack.