Calzona & Weiss Share Slovakia Coach of the Year Award | Hancko Named Player of the Year

Three years after taking the helm, Francesco Calzona has finally been recognized by Slovak football fans as Coach of the Year. The Italian tactician secured the honor, ironically, in a year where his biggest achievement was a victory over Germany, lacking other significant successes. He shared the award with Vladimír Weiss Sr., both receiving an equal 99 votes.

Calzona’s win marks a first in the award’s history. Weiss, although, has dominated the accolades, claiming the title a total of eight times, six of those consecutively. The sight of the two men side-by-side on the podium was particularly noteworthy, given their previously strained relationship, often communicated through the media.

Both men appeared to embody sportsmanship, exchanging polite remarks and demonstrating a newfound respect for one another.

Dávid Hancko also received a first-time honor, being named Slovak Footballer of the Year. He had previously finished second twice, behind Ján Lobotka.

Hancko has enjoyed a remarkable year, nearly completing a transfer to Al-Nassr. However, his continued presence at Atlético Madrid, a leading European club, likely aided his chances of winning the award, a feat that would have been more challenging had he moved to Saudi Arabia.

Weiss Praises Calzona’s Function

This isn’t the first instance of a tie for Coach of the Year in Slovak football. In 2017, Ján Kozák, then the national team coach, and Pavel Hapal, coach of the under-21 team, shared the award.

As in 2017, a close contest between Weiss and Calzona was anticipated. Last year, despite Calzona’s successful run at the European Championship, Weiss decisively defeated him by 39 points. Weiss also had a strong year, guiding Slovan Bratislava to the group stage of the Champions League.

This year’s outcome was uncertain. Calzona had previously excluded Vladimír Weiss Jr. From the national team, a decision that deeply affected his father.

The emotions were palpable as Weiss stood alongside Calzona on the podium. “I’ve had better periods in my life than I’m having now,” he stated, hinting at the lingering impact of past disagreements.

The shared award represents a potential turning of the page in a complex relationship. Even as the specifics of their past conflicts remain largely unspoken, the mutual respect displayed at the ceremony suggests a willingness to move forward. Calzona’s success with the national team, coupled with Weiss’s continued dominance with Slovan Bratislava, underscores the strength of Slovak football and the contributions of both men.

The recognition for Hancko also highlights the growing talent within Slovak football. His performance at Atlético Madrid has undoubtedly elevated his profile, and his selection as Footballer of the Year is a testament to his dedication and skill. The near-miss transfer to Al-Nassr adds an intriguing layer to his story, suggesting a player in high demand and capable of competing at the highest levels.

The 2023 season will be remembered as a year of reconciliation and recognition in Slovak football. The shared Coach of the Year award, the emergence of Hancko as a star, and the continued success of Slovan Bratislava all contribute to a positive outlook for the future of the sport in the country.