Anorthosis fires coach Nestor El Maestro after poor start
Anorthosis Famagusta has officially terminated the contract of head coach Nestor El Maestro and his technical staff following a dismal start to the 2026/27 season. The decision was confirmed on October 19, 2026, after the team suffered its fifth defeat in six league matches, a 1-0 loss to Omonia 29M in Peristerona. The club currently sits at the bottom of the table with only three points from one win and five losses.
The separation will cost the club approximately 50,000 euros in compensation, as stipulated in their contracts which included a two-month salary severance clause. Following the dismissal, the club's administration has moved quickly to appoint a successor to revitalize the team.
Barak Itzhaki, a 42-year-old Israeli coach and former Anorthosis player who appeared 23 times for the club in the 2012/13 season, is the primary candidate to take over. Negotiations are in an advanced stage, with reports suggesting a two-year contract until the summer of 2028. Itzhaki is expected to arrive in Cyprus for final discussions and signing. Meanwhile, organized fans have expressed their frustration by planning to attend training sessions to hold the remaining squad members accountable for the team's ongoing poor performance.