Former Maccabi Assistant Coach Recalls Intense Rivalry and Vandalism During Training at Hapoel Tel Aviv

Josep Maria Berrocal, former assistant coach of Maccabi Tel Aviv, reflected on his turbulent time with the team during an interview with ElTriplazoTV in Spain. Berrocal highlighted the fierce rivalry with Hapoel Tel Aviv, revealing that while training at Hapoel's arena, his car tires were punctured twice. He also recalled the challenges his wife faced leaving the arena after their championship win due to hostile fans.

Berrocal praised the atmosphere at the Menora Mivtachim Arena, describing it as the best he has ever experienced, surpassing even renowned venues like those of Barcelona, Panathinaikos, and Vitoria. He recounted the passionate chants from Hapoel fans, including the phrase "God is with us," which created intense pressure during matches.

The coach also spoke about the internal tensions within Maccabi's locker room, noting heated debates over player selections and disagreements with the head coach. He described the environment as extreme, with multiple coaches holding differing opinions, which contributed to the overall intensity of the period.

Berrocal's tenure coincided with Maccabi Tel Aviv's near Final Four appearances in 2023 and 2024, but the outbreak of war led to the team's disintegration and the departure of key players and staff, including himself.