Vojvodina’s coaching overhaul before Ajax return sparks hope

Vojvodina announced a new head coach on the day of the return leg against Ajax in the Conference League, appointing 42‑year‑old Marko Savić after dismissing Miroslav Tanjga on 25 July. The Serbian club revealed the change through its official channels just hours before the match at the Johan Cruyff Arena.

The decision follows a turbulent start to the 2026/2027 season. Vojvodina were knocked out of the Europa League first qualifying round by Ferencváros, lost the first Conference League leg to Ajax, won their opening domestic league game and then suffered a 3‑1 defeat to Red Star Belgrade.

President Dragoljub Zbiljić addressed the press, saying, “The season has not begun as planned, despite our preparation since April. We have never worked so intensively nor had such a strong desire for a breakthrough in Europe. Unfortunately we had to say goodbye to my good friend Miroslav Tanjga.”

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Marko Savić steps onto the bench for the first time at the Johan Cruyff Arena. He previously managed Serbian clubs Voždovac, FK Železničar Pančevo and Čukarički, bringing a wealth of domestic experience to the role.

Savić expressed his excitement: “It is an honour and a privilege for me and my coach to be here. Opportunities have come before, timing is never ideal, but we are used to different situations and we must be ready.” He added, “One of my goals was to become coach of FK Vojvodina. That dream is now realised, and I am pleased the club has such high ambitions. I am convinced we can achieve a good result and make the fans happy.”

The return match is scheduled for Thursday 30 July. Savić said, “I have my own vision. How we implement it depends on the opponent. Ajax is a great team with an excellent coach, but FK Vojvodina also has a quality squad. We had our first training this morning and a second this afternoon. Time is limited, but we will try to execute the plan and win if possible.”

The contrast between a season marked by early exits and a new coach’s optimism highlights how Vojvodina hopes to reverse its fortunes in a decisive European fixture, turning a managerial overhaul into a catalyst for performance.