Under the Shadow of War: Maccabi Haifa Begins Training Under Itay Mordechai
Challenges Facing the Team
On Thursday, June 19, 2025, Maccabi Haifa, under the guidance of interim coach Itay Mordechai, commenced its preparations for the upcoming season. The team faces significant challenges as they embark on training without head coach Diego Flores, who is unable to travel to Israel due to the ongoing conflict with Iran. The squad is notably short-handed, missing key international players who cannot land in the country, along with several Israeli players, including Dia Saba, Dol Aviv Hazzisa, and Lisab Isaat, who are currently vacationing abroad.
Adjustments to the Coaching Staff
In the absence of head coach Flores, the training sessions will be conducted by fitness coaches Dror Shemesh and Ori Harel, alongside Mordechai. The training will be organized in consultation with Flores. Additionally, sports psychologist Elad Ashkenazi has joined the coaching staff, taking on the role of director of mental development under the guidance of Rafaelov.
Upcoming Training Schedule
These training sessions will continue until Flores’s return, or until the team departs for a training camp in Hungary on July 1. Among the fresh and familiar faces participating in training are loaned players Goni Naor and Sof Podgoran. Lior Kasa, who recently played with the youth national team, has been granted leave until Sunday.
Team Reinforcement Plans
As Maccabi Haifa navigates through this challenging period, efforts to strengthen the squad continue. The club is prioritizing the recruitment of new players, with specific targets including Pierre Corno and a right-back. Other potential additions to the team may include Michael Ohana, Hamudi Kna’an, and South African winger Mopokung.
As the situation develops, Maccabi Haifa remains focused on preparing for the season ahead, hoping that the return of coach Flores and the reinstatement of its full squad will come soon.
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