"Do you know how many times I've asked to terminate my contract?" - Katanets ends his coaching career.

Slovenian publications report that the 61-year-old coach, who brought the Uzbekistan national team closer to direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup, has realized that due to health issues, he will not be able to lead the team in the remaining four official matches and has terminated his contract.

According to the Sportklub website, along with Katanec, his assistants Alex Czech, Nihad Pejkovic, and Vlado Radmanovic are also leaving the national team.

The publication wished good health to the coach, who was the first to lead the Slovenia national team to the European Championship (2000) and the World Cup (2002).

“Just two months ago, I felt great, and I still don't feel too bad now, everything is fine. But still, this is not what I wanted. However, I am not bedridden; I still walk and go out. God is helping me. Recently, I have been traveling frequently between Slovenia and Croatia.

Regarding my coaching career, I made the decision to resign on my own. Throughout my life, it seems I have worked only for others, giving myself completely. You know how many times I asked to terminate my contract? But each time I was persuaded not to. However, this is not the fault of those who encouraged me to continue; it is solely my responsibility as the head coach,” noted Srečko Katanec in an interview.

In response to a question from a Sportklub journalist about whether he has finished his career in football, the legendary Slovenian coach hinted at retirement, adding that even he does not know what will happen tomorrow.

Earlier, it was reported that the 61-year-old specialist is battling cancer. Tribuna.uz wishes not only good health to the legendary Slovenian coach but also to the most successful foreign mentor of the Uzbekistan national team.

It is worth noting that the 61-year-old Katanec has been at the helm of the Uzbekistan national team since the fall of 2021. Under his leadership, the team reached the quarter-finals of the 2023 AFC Cup, advanced to the third round of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, and currently occupies second place in the group, which grants the right to participate in the World Cup.