Dinamo coach Kovačević on team's situation: 'I believe Livaković will defend for us'
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Dinamo Zagreb is preparing for the upcoming season in Slovenia, focusing on physical readiness despite challenging weather.
- Coach Mario Kovačević has a more established squad this year compared to last, with key players like Oršić joining and McKenna expected back soon.
- The team is preparing for their Champions League qualifier against Thun, acknowledging the opponent's strength but focusing on their own performance.
Dinamo Zagreb is undergoing intensive preparations in Slovenia, with coach Mario Kovačević emphasizing the team's focus on physical conditioning for the demanding season ahead. Despite less-than-ideal weather, the players are reportedly working hard, even opting for extra training sessions. Kovačević highlighted the advantage of having a more settled squad this year compared to the previous season, noting the experience and quality brought by new additions like Oršić. Key players are returning from injuries or absences, with McKenna expected back next week and Lisica already training. Kačavenda is sidelined briefly with a fever. The team is gearing up for their Champions League qualifier against Thun in about 20 days. Kovačević acknowledged Thun as a strong opponent but stated his primary focus is on his own team's readiness. He also mentioned that Stojković will miss the first match due to a red card, and they are looking for a suitable replacement. The coach also touched upon the transfer window, indicating that both arrivals and departures are expected, but stressed the importance of keeping the core squad together for the start of the season. He expressed confidence in the team's ability to be prepared for the first leg, despite the challenge posed by a strong opponent early in the season.
Oršić is a great asset to our team, he brought what we needed, experience and knowledge.
Originally published by Večernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.