Josip Iličić (foto: pigac.si)
Maribor's star player, Josip Iličić, will join the team on July 9th after a short break, aiming to be ready for the return leg against Botev Plovdiv in the Europa League qualifiers.
Maribor's footballers will soon begin the new season with an important match that will set the tone for their European campaign. Maribor will face Botev Plovdiv on Thursday, July 11th, in Bulgaria, for the first leg of the Europa League qualification round.
Maribor recently concluded their preparations in Prekmurje, achieving several positive results. They will soon be able to count on their star player, Josip Iličić, who played in the round of 16 match at the European Championship as recently as Monday.
"We know that he played against Portugal on Monday and needs a short break, especially to clear his mind. We've devised a plan that suits both Josip and the club. We have agreed that he will join us on Tuesday, July 9th," said Maribor coach Ante Šimundža.
Iličić is unlikely to be available for the match in Bulgaria, but he is expected to be ready for the return leg at Ljudski vrt. At the European Championship in Germany, Iličić played a total of 30 minutes.