Maccabi Haifa Captain Kenji Gorré Seeks Redemption Ahead of Tiberias Clash
Maccabi Haifa's appointment of Curaçao midfielder Kenji Gorré as captain for the 2026/27 season sparked debate following his World Cup absence and slow start, but team leadership remains confident ahead of their match against Ironi Tiberias.
In late July, Maccabi Haifa coach Barak Bakhar and sports director Lior Refaelov sat in the press conference hall at Kfar Galim to field questions from various media representatives. Amid explanations regarding the departure of Dolev Haziza, squad building, and outside criticism, the identity of the team captain for the 2026/27 season was also thrown into the air. Following Haziza's departure and the release of Abdoulaye Seck, the club knew a new leader was needed.
The Surprising Captaincy Choice
Initial estimates pointed to Omri Glazer or Ali Mohamed as top contenders for the armband, while Sean Goldberg's name was also tossed into the ring. However, Refaelov dropped a bombshell by announcing that the captaincy would be handed to Curaçao midfielder Kenji Gorré. The choice stunned many and sparked considerable debate.
"It is not far-fetched that people are surprised why Kenji got the role," a club official admitted, "but those who know him from the inside know he is truly significant in the locker room and the team's atmosphere."
World Cup Fatigue and Slow Start
Gorré experienced a historic summer, carrying his modest national team, Curaçao, on a magical campaign that culminated in a sensational qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Yet this phenomenal success came with a heavy professional price tag for Maccabi Haifa. Due to participating in the tournament deep into the summer, Gorré missed the start of preseason training and barely took part in team preparations.
Returning to the Starting Lineup
Last round, Gorré watched from the bench as Yair Mordechai received minutes ahead of him, appearing to signal a dip in his status. However, training sessions this week point toward a positive turnaround, with Gorré expected to reclaim his spot in the starting eleven against Ironi Tiberias at Sammy Ofer Stadium.
