Hapoel Haifa Aims for Top-Tier Finish with New Squad and Strong Budget
Hapoel Haifa is entering the new season with clear ambitions to reach the upper playoff bracket after a challenging previous year. The club has assembled a nearly entirely new roster, backed by a substantial budget of approximately 33 million shekels. Nine new players have joined, including promising names like Malian attacking midfielder Shik Kaiteh, with at least two more signings expected. This summer, owner Yoav Katz and coach Haim Silvas, who returned mid-last season and earned a contract extension, collaborated closely to build a team tailored to Silvas's vision.
Silvas, motivated to elevate his status among Israel's top coaches, has been intensively preparing with his staff at the Kiryat Haim training complex. The club is relying heavily on players like Liran Rotman, who joined mid-last season and was retained, and Nigerian striker William Agada, who recently re-signed for a second stint. Meanwhile, ten players departed, including veterans and squad regulars. The club faces challenges in recruiting foreign talent due to regional security concerns but remains optimistic about the integration of new signings.
The squad balances experienced players such as goalkeeper Ivan Krichak and veteran Dor Malul with young talents like Kaiteh and Yedad Gonen, who impressed in preseason matches. The team’s recent 3-2 derby win against Maccabi Haifa in the Toto Cup, despite a late comeback by the rival, has boosted confidence. The club openly states, "With this squad, we can look Maccabi Haifa straight in the eye," setting sights on the top playoff spots and possibly higher.
However, the team still has work to do, as shown by a 3-1 loss to Hapoel Kiryat Shmona in the Toto Cup quarterfinals, where defensive weaknesses were exposed. The league opener will be a tough test against reigning champions Hapoel Be’er Sheva at the Toto Turner Stadium. Off the field, the club aims to increase fan attendance beyond the current 2,000 average, targeting not only Haifa city but also the surrounding Krayot area to build a consistent supporter base.
With improved resources and a clear strategy, Hapoel Haifa is determined to translate its summer investments into on-field success and stronger community engagement this season.
