Acun Ilicali (foto: pigac.si)
The Turkish media mogul’s project at Ljudski vrt has hit a major roadblock. After witnessing Maribor lose the title race in Celje last weekend, Acun Ilicali faces a second consecutive season without a trophy despite significant financial investment. Questions about his long-term commitment to the Slovenian giants are now louder than ever.
When Acun Ilicali arrived in Maribor two years ago, he was hailed as a savior. He looked to mold the club in his own image, installing his close associate Cem Basgul in a key role, bringing in a wave of foreign players, and frequently changing head coaches.
However, despite the capital injected into the club, the expected results on the pitch have remained elusive. For the demanding fans at Ljudski vrt, a second year without silverware is a bitter pill to swallow, leading many to wonder how much longer the Turkish businessman is willing to persist with his current strategy.
The price is set: Evangelos Marinakis among interested parties
Maribor remains a highly attractive asset. As the most successful club in Slovenian history, it boasts a modern stadium by regional standards, a professional infrastructure, and a loyal, massive fanbase. Under the right leadership, its potential for growth is undisputed.
According to our information, potential investors have already started "feeling out" the situation. It is no longer a secret that Evangelos Marinakis, the powerful owner of Nottingham Forest, Olympiacos, and Rio Ave, is among those monitoring the club's status. While Acun Ilicali has not officially put the club on the market, sources suggest there is a specific price for which he would be willing to hand over the keys to Ljudski vrt.