Victor Sanchez exits Rijeka and taps Matjaž Kek as successor

Victor Sanchez HNK Rijeka Matjaž Kek coaching change Croatian football

Spanish coach Victor Sanchez confirmed that the match against Gorica in the final round of the Croatian league was his last in charge of HNK Rijeka. In an emotional press conference he thanked the club and fans, and announced that former Slovenian national team manager Matjaž Kek will take over the helm.

Sanchez highlighted the season’s achievements, including a deep run to the Conference League round of 16 and consistent European participation, while noting the team’s narrow 2‑0 win over Lokomotiva and the missed chance to secure third place in the domestic league. His contract ran until summer 2027, but he said the recent loss in the cup final and overall performance made a change inevitable.

Kek’s appointment was presented as a continuation of Rijeka’s ambitions, with Sanchez expressing confidence that the club is in “good hands” for the next season.

Sources

Victor Sanchez se je poslovil od Rujevice in napovedal naslednika: "Če Rijeko prevzema Matjaž Kek, klub ne more biti v boljših rokah" - Planet Nogomet [planetnogomet.si]

2 months ago

Pirova pobjeda na Rujevici: Gojak s dva gola srušio Goricu, emotivni Sanchez najavio odlazak | Teklić [www.teklic.hr]

2 months ago

Victor Sanchez: "Rijeku ostavljam Matjažu Keku" [gol.dnevnik.hr]

2 months ago

Victor Sanchez oprostio se od klupe Bijelih? “Rijeku preuzima Matjaž Kek” | Riportal [riportal.net.hr]

2 months ago