Unconvincing start to the season

Adding to the 71 matches he coached during his first spell between 2020 and 2021, Pavol Staňo led the Šošoni in another 49 competitive games during his second stint at the Stadium under the Dubeň hill, recording 25 wins, 9 draws and 15 defeats with an average of 1.71 points per match. Ultimately, exits from both European competitions and an unconvincing start to the Niké Liga campaign proved decisive.

Sporting director Karol Belaník explained the club’s decision:

“After carefully evaluating the team’s performances and results at the start of the season, we decided to end our cooperation with head coach Pavol Staňo. Failing to achieve one of our main objectives, namely progressing further in European competition, is a disappointment for the entire club and our supporters. Following a thorough analysis, we concluded that the team needs a new impulse.We would like to thank Pavol for his professionalism, commitment and the work he has done for MŠK Žilina. We wish him every success in both his coaching career and personal life.”

As a local coach and a proud son of the region, Pavol Staňo leaves with the club’s gratitude for everything he achieved over the past year.

Belaník also commented on the appointment of Vladimír Veselý and the club’s continued direction:

“MŠK Žilina will continue to follow its long-term philosophy built on developing young talent, brave football and systematic work with the Academy. We see Vladimír Veselý as a coach who fully embodies these values.This change does not alter the club’s direction or identity. Our priority is to stabilise the team, bring a fresh impulse and return to performances that reflect both the squad’s potential and the club’s ambitions. We believe Vlado can provide the energy, confidence and leadership needed to move the team forward.”

Passion

Former assistant coach Vladimír Veselý has been appointed as the club’s new head coach. A former MŠK player and Academy coach, he has spent many years working within the club structure, most recently with the B team and youth categories, including the UEFA Youth League.

The Žilina native now takes charge of the first team and begins his new role immediately, leading the Šošoni in Saturday’s match away to Banská Bystrica. The rest of the coaching staff remains unchanged.

His first interview as MŠK Žilina head coach is available free of charge on Šošon Play.