Certain criticisms and questions regarding NK Olimpija Ljubljana have appeared in the media in recent days, so I want to personally address the fans about these topics.
Olimpija is experiencing its first challenging period this season. As we all know, ups and downs are part of football, and Olimpija has not been spared from them.
Regarding the revenue that Olimpija has generated, the media has forgotten that there are also considerable expenses. Although the public was informed that the Svit Sešlar case was eventually resolved and we fought for the payout for two years, this is forgotten or deliberately not mentioned. Sports journalists should also know that all sales have a specific payment deadline. This means that the money belongs to the club, but it is paid in installments. These installments can last up to 2 years or even more. It’s true that receivables are high, but liquidity is a completely different story. In reality, any club can truly operate with liquidity only with money guaranteed by UEFA. These funds come at deadlines set by UEFA. Each club can then set its operational and investment plan accordingly.
Olimpija has invested and created reserves. This was a prudent decision, but unfortunately something happened that could not be planned. We did not achieve our European goal this season. Funds from Europe did not come to the extent we had hoped.
This means that the reserves, which every good manager must create, enable Olimpija to have a financially stable future. Olimpija is building on the current team, but can invest in more new players and bring them in at any time. When journalists throw around big numbers and spread hints about where so much money has disappeared, this is a sign of not understanding business fundamentals.
Regarding the question about the training center, the current situation is as follows: despite our numerous efforts, we have unfortunately not yet managed to secure suitable land (due to specific characteristics that are absolutely necessary). Therefore, construction of the desired training center is currently not feasible, as the land on which it could be built is still not available. Currently, it is also unfortunately not possible to predict when the project can be realized at all. We are in constant contact with Šport Ljubljana. We thank them for their excellent cooperation. Work is being done on the facilities and improvements are constantly taking place.
Regarding hints about football agents, I can say that every player has the right to freely choose and change their agent in accordance with FIFA rules. This is a decision of each individual player and the club does not interfere in this.
To date, major transfers have been concluded directly between clubs. These contract terminations have made millionaires out of individual players. Olimpija is therefore a club that opens doors for players to big clubs. Because of this they come to Olimpija and because of this they also leave. I also want to remind that all players who succeeded in making this big step sincerely thanked the club, management and fans.
When a transfer occurs and a player becomes a millionaire, I don’t know of any club that would additionally transfer money to the player. With contract termination, these matters are also legally settled. This is a normal business process and not about fulfilling wishes.
Regarding questions about contract violations, I can say that players and employees have contracts that they must fulfill. The club and fans deserve to see their best performances on the pitch. During transfer windows, the same picture always emerges again. Disappointed with their own performances and misled by their agents, individuals often don’t show their true game. That’s why fans are right when they say: We want to see you fight! The transfer window is now closed and individual players are regaining awareness that they must show even more in training and prove themselves.
However, and I want to emphasize this, there are also some agents who are excellent and work exclusively in the best interest of the players, while also understanding the club’s concerns. As everywhere, the quality of agents and their actual work sometimes differs greatly here as well.
Erwin van de Looi as head coach brings high-level play to the team, and together with his professional staff, he does excellent work. I personally believe he deserves the greatest respect, as he has taken on an extremely responsible task under such demanding circumstances. He has our and my full confidence, and we are convinced that together with the best fans in Slovenia, he will win the titles we all want. It is true, however, that the players were worn down and many were injured – this is not an excuse, but a fact.
In Olimpija club, there is only one person who bears responsibility and also takes it.
Your President
Adam Delius
