Hapoel Haifa expects Sana Gomes back, but the defender refuses to return

Hapoel Haifa is preparing for the 2026/27 season, but defender Sana Gomes continues to refuse to return to Israel despite the club activating the option to extend his contract. The team has tried to keep him and even offered to reopen his deal, but Gomes is still firmly saying no.

The main dispute is financial. According to the report, Gomes was not given a salary increase under his current contract, and that has become the central sticking point. His representatives are demanding that the club set a realistic transfer price for the defender, while owner Yoav Katz has not agreed to do so.

In response, Hapoel Haifa said Gomes has been treated well by the club and that it expects him to arrive at the start of training as required by his contract. The matter remains unresolved as the club waits for his decision.