(foto: Posnetek zaslona)
Southampton owner Dragan Šolak apologised to supporters after the Spygate scandal and promised changes ahead of a promotion push next season.
Southampton owner Dragan Šolak has finally broken his silence after the scandal that shook English football and ended the club’s promotion dream. In his first public message since the controversial Spygate affair, the Slovenian businessman admitted mistakes were made and apologized directly to supporters.
Southampton looked set for a memorable season. The club went unbeaten across 21 consecutive league matches, reached the FA Cup semi-finals and secured a place in the promotion play-offs on sporting merit. Everything changed after an independent disciplinary panel punished the club for spying on training sessions involving three opposing teams.
The sanction excluded Southampton from the play-off final and triggered fierce reactions across English football.
In an open message to supporters, Šolak accepted responsibility for how events unfolded.
"I want to apologize for the way the season ended. As the first man of the club, I take responsibility for everything that happens at Southampton. Mistakes were made, and we will learn from them," Šolak wrote.
Despite acknowledging wrongdoing, he also questioned the severity of the punishment.
"The rules were broken, and the consequences had to follow. But I am convinced that the punishment is disproportionate to the offence and compared to past cases. The fans and players have lost the most."
Šolak also used the statement to provide stability around the club’s leadership structure. He confirmed full backing for head coach Tonda Eckert, technical director Johannes Spors and chief executive Phil Parsons, all of whom will continue in their positions next season.
The objective for 2026/27 is straightforward.
Return to the Premier League.
"We want to return to the Premier League. We believe in our coach and in the direction we have set. In the summer, we will put together a team that will get the fans on their feet and bring the excitement back to St Mary's Stadium," Šolak promised.
Southampton will continue discussions with the English Football Association regarding remaining procedures connected to the case before shifting complete focus toward the new campaign.
Despite everything that happened, one thing remains clear.
Southampton expect to start next season as one of the favourites for promotion.