Slobodan Drapić Explains Why Maccabi Haifa Move Fell Through This Summer

Slobodan Drapić, a prominent Israeli Premier League coach, recently discussed his career and future prospects in an interview on Sport 5. After parting ways with Bnei Reineh last season, Drapić is currently without a team and expressed the challenges of waiting for the right opportunity. Reflecting on his past decisions, he highlighted his successful stint at Beitar Jerusalem, where he led the team to third place, and his recent experience taking over Netanya with a nine-point deficit.

Drapić emphasized his belief that he is suited to coach in the Premier League rather than lower divisions and mentioned considering coaching national youth teams. He revealed that this summer he was in talks with Maccabi Haifa, initiated by player Lior Refaelov, who wanted to bring him on board. Drapić met with Haifa’s coach Barak Bakhar, but the discussions did not result in an agreement, partly due to uncertainty about his role, possibly as an assistant coach. Respecting both Refaelov and Bakhar, Drapić said they amicably parted ways after deciding it was not a good fit.

He also noted that he requested Maccabi Ashdod to hold off on finalizing any deal while waiting to hear from Haifa. Drapić confirmed he never signed with Ashdod and that his coaching abilities remain intact. Additionally, he praised young coach Shay Barda for his talent and potential and mentioned a personal reconciliation with Avi Luzon, who had contacted him multiple times.

Drapić, 61, remains optimistic about contributing to Israeli football and is open to future opportunities in the Premier League or national teams.