Given the initial assessment of one point out of six, the news is no longer entirely sporting at Standard in these times of gloomy and, to put it bluntly, useless competition.
Thematic return to the press conference of Standard coach Ivan Leko before this Friday’s trip to Sint-Truiden to open the third day of the European Playoffs.
Ivan Leko during his time at Sint-Truiden, in 2016-2017. ©BELGASaint-Trond
“I was the happiest”
By the Croatian’s own admission, it was his season in Sint-Truiden, in 2016-2017, which truly launched his career as a professional coach. However, he had managed OHL before that (from March to November 2014) then PAOK (as assistant) before joining Limburg.
“I remember it well,” he rewound with a smile rare enough to be pinned down. This was perhaps the year I was happiest. I loved working with the people at the club, from the owner to the team manager to the equipment manager… And with a mix of young talents and experienced people. I am proud and happy to have been a coach at Sint-Truiden. Very grateful, too, for the luck I received.”
The context this Friday will be practically friendly for Standard. Not for the Canaries. With Mechelen, Saint-Trond is the only team that can reasonably hope to join La Gantoise to win these Europe Playoffs.
Canak in discussion with Leko during the Standard winter camp in Marbella in January 2024. ©JDMCanak
“The file is closed”
Ivan Leko seemed surprised that his statements about Cihan Canak, Saturday after the split against OHL (0-0), caused so much ink and saliva to flow during the week. “I don’t think I said anything special, I just answered your question.”
He confirmed Monday’s interview, at the player’s request, to resolve the dispute. “The file is closed. Football is about emotions. But you have to respect everyone, like in a family. On the one hand, it’s normal for a player to focus on his personal situation. On the other hand, you have to look at your teammates, those who are fighting for their chance but who are on the bench. I’m not here to give lessons. We all make mistakes, we accept them, and we move forward together.”
Leko before Sint-Truiden – Standard: “Canak keeps the same chances of playing as anyone else”
While Djenepo, who was ill last Saturday, has returned to the group, what will Leko’s choice be this Friday at Stayen? “Cihan keeps the same chances as the others. I treat my players like my daughters: they must know that I love them but also that I am critical in helping them grow and evolve.”
Staff
“Everyone must do better”
Officially under contract at Standard until June 2026, Ivan Leko has already repeated that he will want reinforcements for next season. In the squad, obviously, but also in the staff.
”This season has been bad for everyone, including the staff. No one can say that he was blameless and that it was the fault of others, he insisted. The staff should and could have done better, me too. Like the management and like the players… It’s the truth.”
Edward Still (left) present in the stands during Standard – Ghent on March 2, 2024. ©Fred Moisse
The relegation of SL16 to Nationale 1 will have repercussions on the sports organization chart since Réginal Goreux will no longer occupy the position of T1 and will concentrate on the academy.
Cascading reshuffles could affect the first team staff. Theoretically, Bernd Thijs, one of the deputies, has a contract until next June. We also know that Edward Still – former assistant to Leko, with whom he remains close – has already attended several matches at Sclessin this season, invited by the Croatian.
The latter tempers: “We still have a few weeks to take stock, but I haven’t asked for anything special. But with me, you can be sure you’ll know what’s going on.”
We are still waiting to see his reaction if his demands are not met in time. The supporters too, those who keep in their throats the surprise departure of Ronny Deila last season…
Standard: Arnaud Bodart, three questions for a transfer
“Football, you know… Today I am a coach but maybe tomorrow I am no longer,” Leko replied. What I am certain of is that I am happy here. That I want a better team, better staff, better management… I am critical of myself too. I am ready to give more than 100% to have a better future together. And I hope that when we talk about it again in a few months, we will remember this press conference.”
The appointment is made.
2024-04-11 21:14:00
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