Bokelj’s Brave Gamble: Savićević Rescues Team from Crisis

The football club Bokelj made a bold decision to appoint Vladimir Savićević, a 35-year-old coach with limited experience, as they faced a challenging mid-season crisis. At the time of his hiring, Bokelj sat at the bottom of the table, struggling with injuries and a lack of momentum. This risky move, announced on September 11, has since proven successful, as Savićević has revitalized the team and lifted them above the relegation zone.

Savićević, the son of Dejan Savićević, a prominent figure in Montenegrin football, embraced the challenge with determination. “I knew the players and believed from day one that we could pull the team out of this crisis,” he stated in an interview with local media. Under his leadership, Bokelj has not lost a match in their last five outings, solidifying their position and ending the first half of the season in ninth place with 19 points, four points clear of the bottom team, Jedinstvo.

Initially, the team struggled, suffering three consecutive defeats after Savićević took the reins. However, a turning point came with a victory against Dečić, followed by a series of positive results that included draws against Mornar and Petrovac. The team’s resurgence was aided by the return of injured players and a focused training regimen during the international break. “We have achieved the desired form by the end of autumn,” Savićević remarked.

As they prepare for the second half of the season, Savićević emphasizes the importance of a strong start. The upcoming matches are critical; every point will weigh more heavily than in the first half of the season. “I am confident we will maintain our top-flight status,” he asserted, indicating the team’s aim to secure a position above the relegation zone.

Bokelj’s roster has seen some changes as well. Departures include Greek international Kokinis and Japanese player Nişimura, while the club has welcomed new talent, including Bakir Nurković, a promising young player with Montenegrin heritage, and Serbian forward Bogdan Stamenković. They are also bringing in goalkeeper Dragan Ćetković, previously of Budva, to strengthen the squad.

Preparations for the upcoming spring season are already underway. The team will begin training on January 12, 2024, and has scheduled seven friendly matches, culminating in a significant game against Petrovac on February 14, 2024.

Savićević’s accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. He was recently nominated for the top domestic coach award by the Football Association of Montenegro (FSCG), finishing third behind Zdravko Dragičević of Petrovac and winner Miodrag Džudović from Jezero. “This recognition means a lot to me, especially coming from my colleagues,” he commented.

In a bid to further hone his coaching skills, Savićević plans to travel to Milan early this year. He intends to observe training sessions led by Massimiliano Allegri, the experienced manager of AC Milan. “I am someone who loves to learn and improve. Training with such a prestigious club is an invaluable opportunity,” he added.

Bokelj’s journey this season reflects a remarkable turnaround, showcasing the impact of decisive leadership and a committed coaching approach. The club’s future now hangs in the balance as they head into the crucial second half of the championship, where every match will significantly influence their fate in the league.