Slobodan Drapić Reflects on Coaching Challenges and Future Prospects in Israeli Football

Slobodan Drapić, a seasoned football coach in Israel, begins the 2026/27 season without a team, reflecting on his career and future ambitions. Despite his success in developing top Israeli players and coaching prominent teams like Beitar Jerusalem and Maccabi Netanya, Drapić is currently waiting for the right opportunity, emphasizing caution in choosing his next role. He expressed disappointment over unfulfilled promises at Hapoel Tel Aviv and shared insights into his experiences working with influential club owners such as Moshe Hogeg.

Drapić discussed the difficulties he faced with media relations, citing language barriers and discomfort with the press as factors that affected his public image. He acknowledged the importance of media in football but admitted he struggled to navigate this aspect of the profession. Despite these challenges, he remains active in football by supporting youth teams in Netanya and advising other coaches.

Regarding recent rumors, Drapić confirmed contact with Ironi Tiberias and interest in helping the club rise to the Premier League but noted uncertainties about the club's future. He also revealed that he was considered for coaching positions at Maccabi Haifa and Hapoel Be'er Sheva but that negotiations did not materialize, partly due to differences in coaching staff composition and ego clashes.

Reflecting on his tenure at Hapoel Tel Aviv, Drapić described a difficult period marked by management changes and lack of support for his plans, which led to his resignation without severance pay. He remains hopeful about returning to top-level coaching or other roles in Israeli football, emphasizing his desire to contribute his knowledge and experience to the sport.

Drapić also mentioned a past connection to Brighton & Hove Albion through former colleague Bibras Natkho, highlighting how media speculation once placed him as a potential candidate for the English club's coaching position. He concluded by expressing gratitude for his family and optimism about future opportunities, including a recent offer from Ashdod's owner Jacky Ben Zaken.

Summary: Veteran Israeli football coach Slobodan Drapić opens the 2026/27 season without a team, reflecting on past challenges with club management and media, while awaiting the right coaching opportunity. He remains engaged in youth football development and hopes to return to top-tier coaching soon.