Veljko Birmančević (foto: Uradni Twitter profil kluba/zveze)
Veljko Birmančević has dismissed rumours of a conflict with Sparta Prague’s coach, revealing he played for months in chronic pain and recently underwent medical procedures.
Veljko Birmančević has spoken out to put an end to speculation suggesting he left Sparta Prague’s training camp on his own initiative or fell out with head coach Brian Priske.
The Serbian international has been largely absent from the pitch in recent weeks and has spent much of the last month on the bench. Combined with a turbulent spell over the past year and a half, his reduced role prompted sections of the media to suggest a possible disagreement with the coaching staff.
Birmančević breaks his silence
In an official statement released to clarify the situation, Birmančević stressed that physical problems — not motivation or attitude — were behind his struggles.
“Regarding the reports that I left the preparations on my own, I want to address the fans directly,” he said. “For the past six months, I played while dealing with chronic pain. The first medical procedure was carried out in November, and after just two days I returned to training to help the team. The second intervention was done recently, with the aim of reducing the pain.”
Motivation never in question
The winger was keen to underline that his commitment to Sparta has not wavered, despite the setbacks.
“Motivation has never been an issue — there is plenty of it,” Birmančević added. “Thank you all very much. On to new victories.”
His message appears to close the door on talk of a personal conflict with Priske, instead highlighting the physical toll he has been playing under for months.
What comes next
The focus now shifts to Birmančević’s recovery and whether he can force his way back into contention once fully fit. With the pain-management procedures completed, the coming weeks should offer a clearer picture of his role at Sparta and whether he can return to the form that previously made him a key figure.