Tian Nai Koren (foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
15-year-old Slovenian talent Tian Nai Koren signs his first professional contract with Maribor, securing his future amid interest from top European clubs.
Maribor has successfully sealed what could be a pivotal deal for the club’s future, as Tian Nai Koren, one of Slovenia’s brightest football talents, is set to sign his first professional contract with the club. The 15-year-old midfielder, capable of competing against much older opponents, has been on the radar of several top European clubs, who could have acquired him by paying only a modest development fee—reportedly under €100,000.
Losing such a talent would have been a significant blow for Maribor, especially since the club’s new owner, Acun Ilıcalı, and his team have emphasized the importance of developing and retaining Slovenian talent. Determined to secure Koren’s future, the club intensified its efforts, ultimately convincing both the player and his representatives to commit to their long-term vision.
According to sources, the decisive factor was the club’s emphasis on supporting local talent. Koren’s father, former Slovenian international Robert Koren, and agent Elvis Bašanović, who also represents Benjamin Šeško, agreed that signing with Maribor was the best step for the young midfielder’s development at this stage of his career.
While the contract reportedly includes an option that would allow Koren to pursue a move abroad in the future, Maribor would receive a substantial financial reward if that happens. Securing the signature of a player already attracting strong interest from Europe is seen as a major success for the club, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.