Slovenian youth sports: football prospect Andrej Pogacar draws interest as coach Blaž Debevec warns on early contracts

In Slovenia the Pogacar name is making headlines in two sports. 2002‑born midfielder Andrej Pogacar, a product of NK Radomlje’s youth academy, has become the club’s standout player and is attracting interest from clubs in Slovenia, Poland and Italy’s Serie B. Club owners the Marinsek family and director Grega see him as a key future asset.

At the same time, former cyclist and coach Blaž Debevec cautions that young Slovenian cyclists, some as young as 15, are facing mounting pressure to sign pre‑contracts and focus on professional careers before completing their development. He urges a balance between training, education and personal well‑being, citing Tadej Pogačar’s relaxed attitude toward defeat as a model for young athletes.