Maccabi Haifa Targets Coleraine Manager Rory Higgins Following Bakhar Exit

Maccabi Haifa owner Yaakov Shahar has initiated talks with potential candidates to replace Barak Bakhar as head coach, with Northern Irish manager Rory Higgins emerging as a notable option on the club's shortlist. According to reports from English journalist Ben Jacobs, the Greens' management has begun consultations with several foreign professionals, including the Coleraine manager.

Higgins began his playing career in the youth academy of English club Coventry City before playing as a midfielder in Ireland and Northern Ireland for teams such as Derry City, Bohemians, and Dundalk, retiring in 2016. Following his playing career, he transitioned into coaching and scouting, serving as chief scout for the Republic of Ireland national team and later managing Derry City, where he secured the FAI Cup in 2022. In May 2025, he took charge of Coleraine, leading the team to domestic cup success and a strong campaign this season, currently sitting second in the standings with 35 points from 45 possible, trailing league leaders Linfield.

The search for a new head coach comes in the wake of Barak Bakhar's resignation following a heavy 4-0 defeat to Maccabi Netanya just prior to the international break. Bakhar's departure followed a severe sporting crisis characterized by three consecutive league losses, 20 goals conceded since the start of the season, and an 18-point tally that left the team six points behind league leaders Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Reflecting on his departure, Bakhar addressed the club and supporters in an emotional statement: "This is a very difficult moment for me. I say this with tears—the team needs a change. I worked very hard to lift this club up, but it simply did not work. I informed Yaakov Shahar that I am resigning. It hurts deeply, I tried everything, and it did not work. I am at peace with my decision and certain the club will embark on a new path."