Details Behind Chaim Silvas’s Appointment at Hapoel Haifa

Introduction of New Coach

Hapoel Haifa announced the appointment of Chaim Silvas as the new head coach of the team on Monday, following the departure of Gal Arel after a 1-0 defeat to Maccabi Bnei Reina. Silvas, a former coach of the club, was the preferred candidate of team owner Yoav Katz for a second tenure, largely due to the favorable impressions he made during his previous term and his experience in handling relegation battles.

Coaching Transition

Silvas, who started the current season with M.S. Ashdod, is set to conduct his first training session with Hapoel Haifa today and is expected to make his debut on the sidelines this Saturday against Beitar Jerusalem. The coaching staff previously aligned with Arel, including assistants Barak Badash and Shahar Poni, will continue in their roles under Silvas’s leadership.

Squad Decisions Ahead

While Silvas is not anticipated to implement drastic changes to the squad, which recently added two new foreign players in January, he faces an immediate decision regarding winger Regis Endo. Endo was excluded from the last match’s squad and received a message from Arel indicating he is free to explore opportunities with other clubs. If Silvas wishes to sign another foreign player for the attacking position, it may come at the cost of Endo’s place on the roster.

Potential Return of Yoav Gerafi

Additionally, another former player, Yoav Gerafi, may return to Haifa. As first reported by the sports channel, Gerafi has reportedly agreed to terms with Hapoel Haifa but is awaiting his release from Maccabi Tel Aviv, which has been delaying the process. Gerafi’s return is anticipated, especially given his current lack of playing time post-derby.

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Hapoel Haifa’s management and fans look forward to Silvas’s leadership and potential team improvements as they navigate the challenges ahead in the league.