From Chile came a fierce call for Mirko Jozic: "He is not an idol, we gave him everything"

A former president of Chilean club Colo Colo has made controversial remarks about Croatian coach Mirko Jozić, who is set to return to the country this month after more than two decades away. In a recent interview during an episode of La Hora de Conversar, Peter Dragicevic, who once led the club, expressed his belief that Jozić should not be regarded as an idol, but rather as a worker who received support from the club to achieve success. Dragicevic, who played a key role in bringing Jozić into the youth system before he took charge of the senior team in 1990, stated that Jozić was “just another worker” who benefited from the resources and structure provided by Colo Colo. He emphasized that the club gave Jozić everything necessary to reach the pinnacle of football, including the tools and infrastructure needed to build a successful team. “This is why I believe Mirko Jozić should be grateful to Colo Colo,” Dragicevic said. His comments have sparked debate among fans and colleagues, given the immense respect Jozić still holds within the club’s history. Dragicevic added that while he does not dispute Jozić's contributions, he believes other individuals, such as players and past administrators, were equally, if not more, vital to the club’s achievements. He pointed to specific figures, such as former player Lizardo Garrido and his own directors from that era, whom he considers more crucial to Colo Colo’s rise. “The heroes of 1991 were the players and Mirko, but if I hadn’t come to the club, Colo Colo wouldn’t have a stadium or the Copa Libertadores today,” he concluded. This statement underscores the complex relationship between Jozić and the club, which has long been a subject of admiration and gratitude among fans. Despite these remarks, current leadership at Colo Colo has taken a different stance. Edmundo Valladares, head of the club’s social department, praised Jozić as “the most important coach in our history” upon announcing his return. The club is organizing a grand welcome for Jozić as part of its celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of winning the Copa Libertadores in 1991, a title that remains one of the club’s greatest achievements. Jozić had intended to participate in the club’s centenary celebrations in 2025, but was unable to attend due to health and logistical reasons. Now, with his return planned for late September, he aims to reconnect with the players and fans who remember him as the man behind Colo Colo’s historic victory. The upcoming reunion will include meetings with players from the 1991 squad, many of whom remain active in the sport and continue to honor their time under Jozić’s guidance. This situation highlights the evolving perception of Jozić both within and beyond the club. While some members of the club’s historical leadership view him as a valuable contributor, others emphasize the collective effort required to achieve greatness. As Jozić prepares to step back onto Chilean soil, the contrast between past and present perspectives adds depth to the narrative of a coach whose legacy continues to shape the identity of Colo Colo.