Maccabi Haifa will be hosted by Maccabi Netanya tomorrow (Monday) in order to maintain the four point gap at the top, but in the last few days the future of Neta Lavi has been discussed. After it was first published on the sports channel about Gamba Osaka’s interest in the green captain, today confirmed Barak Bacher Because an appeal was indeed made.
“Everyone knows that there is an offer, it’s Neta’s decision. Of course, as a coach, I want him to stay, he is a very important player, but he has his wishes and we have to respect them,” Bachar admitted. “I really hope he stays and if not, there are players who will play in his place.”
“Every season there are ups and downs, there are players who are missing and if Neta leaves – we will manage and find alternatives”, the Maccabi Haifa coach expressed optimism. “He is a significant and important player, but nothing is closed. Right now we have to deal with the game against Maccabi Netanya.”
And what will happen in January? Bachar said: “It depends on who leaves, we are closed to foreigners so we can only bring in Israelis and there are not too many options. Right now the staff is strong enough to go all the way, there could be one change or another, but there shouldn’t be a revolution.”
The one who might play against Maccabi Netanya is Dolev Haziza, who has returned to eligibility. “He drove us crazy when he was injured, finally he will break down a bit on the field instead of driving us crazy from the outside,” said Bacher. “There is no doubt that he is very important professionally and socially, it’s fun to watch him practice and I believe that tomorrow he will get minutes.”
“No game is easy in the league, we didn’t beat Netanya twice last season, they have a good team. We want to continue our good period and hope to continue our winning streak. There is a three-way battle and strong teams face us, we respect them, we have to take care of ourselves.” Bachar said. “I want this headache, it gives me and the team more options in choosing the lineup and substitutions. Hopefully in the next game everyone will return.”