Gal Alberman’s journey at Maccabi Haifa: a record of success
Gal Alberman’s tenure at Maccabi Haifa evolved from a valuable player into a trusted executive, culminating in his role as sporting director from June 2021. During his time on the professional staff, the club claimed three league titles, lifted the Toto Cup twice, and captured the Champion of Champions trophy. Fans often remember the peak moments of his era: guiding Haifa to the group stage of the UEFA Champions League and advancing to the knockout rounds of the Conference League, marks of a club punching above its weight on the continental stage.
From player to strategist
Alberman’s ascent was not limited to on-field duties. He wore multiple hats within the club’s football operations — assistant coach, head of scouting, and ultimately sporting director. His leadership coincided with strategic hires, scouting advances, and a clearer football philosophy that aligned with Haifa’s ambitions. He also leveraged a UEFA coaching license earned a decade earlier and a football management degree earned through UEFA-backed programs, a credential set that highlighted his readiness for executive level decisions. His European experiences include a stint in Tenerife and a two-year spell with Borussia Mönchengladbach, enriching his understanding of European football structures.
The setback and the post-Haifa horizon
Last season’s disappointing results, including a heavy derby defeat, acted as a catalyst for a leadership shake-up that ended Alberman’s tenure in the sporting director chair. In the wake of the changes, Lior Rafaelov stepped in as head of scouting, with expectations that he will soon assume the sporting director duties as part of a succession that mirrors Alberman’s earlier path.
What Alberman is doing now
Since parting ways with Haifa, Alberman has attracted interest from clubs both in Israel and abroad. He has chosen to proceed deliberately, taking time to evaluate opportunities rather than rushing into a decision. While he has completed further coaching coursework, he has stated clearly that his goal is not to become a coach again. Instead, the focus is on football management at the highest level — continuing his education, expanding his network across leagues, and seeking roles where he can replicate the impact he had at Haifa.
Building a global network
People close to Alberman note that he remains connected with coaches, directors, and executives met during UEFA courses and through his Haifa work. Those connections span Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, creating a foundation for potential leadership roles such as director of football or sporting director at clubs that share his strategic vision and football philosophy.
Why this matters for Israeli football
Alberman’s ongoing search illustrates a broader trend: Israeli football is producing executives capable of operating on the international stage, not just on the field. With his blend of hands-on experience, scouting leadership, and UEFA-aligned management training, he stands as a potential model for future senior roles in the region.
Timeline and what to watch
Observers expect a decision in the coming months, but Alberman’s measured approach likely means waiting for the right project. Whether the next move takes him abroad or anchors him within another high-profile Israeli club, the next chapter promises to be as consequential as his Haifa years.
