Slaven Belupo finished fifth in the SuperSport HNL last season, just one point behind fourth-placed Varaždin, earning qualification for the Conference League. Coach Mario Kovačević was credited for these impressive results, but now he has been replaced by his assistant Mario Gregurina, who at 37 years old becomes the youngest coach in the league. Gregurina has made it clear that Slaven will no longer be a team fighting relegation but a stable top-flight club focused on developing young players. The club confirmed it will sign a new contract with 19-year-old midfielder Adrian Jagušić, one of the club’s most talented players. Gregurina emphasized that they will not bring in just any players but only top reinforcements that can elevate the team. He himself was a former Slaven Belupo midfielder who had to end his playing career early due to injuries and turned to coaching. Holding a UEFA Pro license, he is proud that his hometown club gave him the chance to lead the first team. His philosophy is clear: quality, youth development, and ambition for the top of the table. If you thought Slaven would remain in the shadows of the giants, Gregurina and his team are ready to prove you wrong. Will they bring in top reinforcements? Yes! Will they fight relegation? No! Slaven Belupo is ready for new challenges, and maybe it’s time to seriously consider them in the race for European competitions. What do you think about this young coach and his plans? Will he succeed in taking Slaven to the next level, or is it just a dream? Drop a comment and let the people’s voice be heard!
