Slovenia in Search of New Coach After Missing Out on World Cup Qualification

Slovenia is seeking a replacement coach after opting to separate from Matjaz Kek in the wake of their unsuccessful bid for the 2026 World Cup, according to the national federation's announcement on Monday.

The 64 year old's agreement concluded at the end of November, and the Slovenian Football Association (NZS) indicated that the moment had arrived to offer an opportunity to another individual.

"We concurred that, following seven years of a highly productive collaboration, highlighted by an impressive qualification for the (2024) European Championship, it was appropriate to conclude our joint efforts," the NZS declared in its release.

"We shall select a new coach without rushing the process," the release continued, noting that the successor would be appointed prior to the team's upcoming fixture in March.

Kek led Slovenia to the round of 16 at the Euros in Germany in 2024, marking their first appearance at that stage in 24 years, yet they could not advance from their World Cup qualifying section, ending up a clear third behind Switzerland and Kosovo after failing to secure victory in any of their six encounters.

They have reached the World Cup on two occasions, in 2002 and 2010, with the latter success coming during Kek's initial tenure as the national side's manager.