Management Clash at Hapoel Tel Aviv Threatens Stability Ahead of EuroLeague Season

Hapoel Tel Aviv is preparing for the upcoming EuroLeague season amid a significant internal management conflict between club chairman Oren Hasson and CEO Tzachi Reichenstein. The dispute centers on disagreements over the club's management approach, with sources indicating the two leaders "simply do not see eye to eye." The tension began about a month ago when Hasson, former chairman of the Israel Football Association and CEO of the league administration, took over as chairman. Concerns were raised early on about overlapping responsibilities between Hasson and Reichenstein, which have since led to power struggles.

Since Hasson's appointment, the club has seen major changes in its management team, including the appointment of four new executives: Yiftach Harel as marketing manager, Kobi Golan as operations manager, Amir Lubin as youth activities manager, and Eran Atiya as external relations manager. Some within the club criticized the timing of these appointments, arguing that such upheaval is ill-advised during critical season preparations. They also noted that these new hires are connected to Doron Ossidon, a close advisor to club owner Ofer Yanai, who reportedly exerts significant influence despite holding no official position.

The conflict escalated when Hasson attempted to remove key figures, including Idan Palda and legal advisor Amit Pinto, but was blocked by Reichenstein. A particularly contentious episode involved the premature publication of the club's appointment framework on social media, which Hasson released without consulting Reichenstein, who was abroad in Sofia for EuroLeague preparations. Owner Yanai, also abroad on business, ordered the immediate removal of the incorrect post and expressed dissatisfaction with Hasson's unilateral action.

Further internal criticism arose after Hasson refused to allow senior staff, including professional manager George Hinas and coach Dimitris Itoudis, to attend a staff meeting via Zoom while abroad. Yanai's associates report his frustration with both Hasson and Reichenstein, emphasizing his expectation that experienced executives manage the club effectively in his absence. Yanai's message to both parties is clear: they must find a way to collaborate without forcing his direct intervention or decisions regarding their positions.