Barbarez ahead of San Marino and Slovenia: The strongest will play, everyone will get a chance – Janelt and Janković still in play for the Dragons

(Patria) - The head coach of the Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team, Sergej Barbarez, addressed the public today regarding the upcoming matches for the Dragons – the qualifying duel against San Marino and a friendly match with Slovenia. The press conference was held at the premises of the Football Association of BiH in Sarajevo.

The duel against San Marino will be played on June 7 in Zenica, starting at 3 PM, while the friendly match with Slovenia is scheduled for June 10 in Celje, starting at 6 PM.

Barbarez has included 26 players on the list and announced that almost all invited players will get a chance in these matches.



– The strongest lineup will play against San Marino, and I have already agreed with some players that they will go on vacation after that match. So, we will play with a significantly changed lineup against Slovenia. I am pleased that all invited players are healthy and eager to play – said Barbarez.

He added that the gathering starts tomorrow and that the team will have three more training sessions than usual.

– It is important that we spend as much time together as possible because that is the only way to build a true team spirit and progress – said the coach.

Gazibegović requested a conversation

Barbarez also touched upon the situation with national team player Jusuf Gazibegović, who was not called up this time.

– Jusuf was surprised, but I explained the reasons to him. He has played only 90 minutes in the last three months, and even that in two separate matches. In one game, he was substituted at halftime due to a knock. I was not satisfied with his performances before, in the national team either. This was his first serious injury, and now the most important thing is for him to rest both physically and mentally – said the coach.

Janelt and Janković's processes are still ongoing

Barbarez also answered questions about potential new national team players, Vitaly Janelt and Niko Janković.

– The process for Janelt is still ongoing. We knew from the beginning that it would not be easy, but we remain optimistic. He is the most optimistic, maintaining a positive attitude and control. We have changed tactics a bit, involved some new people. We have not been rejected yet, which means we are still "alive" in this story – explained Barbarez.

As for Niko Janković, the coach revealed that he also spoke with his father.

– The decision is up to him. We will finalize everything after these matches, and then we will officially comment on his status – he said.

Bilino polje sold out, Kolašinac is coming

Finally, Barbarez expressed satisfaction with the great interest from fans for the upcoming match against San Marino. Bilino polje is sold out, and the coach announced that the injured Sead Kolašinac will also be in the stands to support his teammates.

– This shows the true spirit of this team. It is important that we stay together and be one. San Marino is a serious task and must be approached with maximum responsibility – concluded Barbarez.