Everyone but Kovacevic can see who doesn't belong in the Dynamo's first 11.

Dinamo has once again found itself in turmoil over its starting XI selection, with all eyes on the team's coaching decisions following a dramatic extra-time win against Thuja in a European match. The club’s situation appears unchanged from the beginning of last season, despite the expectations placed upon it. Coach Mario Kovačević secured his position after leading the team to double success last season, yet the current squad continues to struggle under his tactical choices. The game against Thuja, which ended in a tense extra time, highlighted deep issues within the team, particularly around key players who have been left out of the initial lineup. The match against Thuja was supposed to be a relatively easy test, given the opponent's modest standing in their domestic league. However, Dinamo's defensive struggles were evident from the outset, raising questions about the quality of their goalkeeping and midfield support. Goalkeeper Ivan Filipović, despite being selected, failed to provide the stability needed during critical moments. His performance was marked by several missed saves and lackluster distribution, leaving the defense exposed. Similarly, Mislav Oršić, a former standout player, has not delivered the impact expected of him in recent matches. While he has a storied past with the club, his current form suggests he is no longer the consistent performer he once was. Filipović is not the sole issue facing Dinamo. The team's inability to maintain a solid backline has led to repeated errors, undermining confidence both among players and fans. Although Filipović did manage to make crucial saves, the overall defensive structure lacked cohesion. This has raised concerns about whether the right personnel is being utilized effectively. There is speculation that goalkeeper Ivan Nevistić, currently on the bench, could offer more reliability, especially considering his experience and recent performances. Yet, the decision to keep Filipović in the starting XI remains puzzling, even as the team continues to face challenges in European competition. Oršić's inclusion in the starting XI has also sparked debate. Despite his contributions to the team's past successes, including goals against top-tier opponents, his current role seems increasingly uncertain. He lacks the explosiveness and influence that made him a key figure in previous seasons. Moreover, his continued presence in the starting XI appears to be based more on name recognition than on actual contribution. The situation is further complicated by the availability of Arber Hoxha, a reliable and impactful player who has consistently performed well for the team. Hoxha's absence from the starting XI, while not directly linked to Oršić, highlights deeper issues regarding how the coach evaluates and prioritizes his squad. The broader implications of these decisions extend beyond this particular match. Fans and analysts alike are questioning whether Kovačević is still the best choice to lead the team forward. While there is no indication that he should be immediately replaced, the long-term consequences of maintaining such a lineup could be detrimental. The pressure on the coach is mounting, and the need for decisive action, whether through tactical adjustments or personnel changes, is becoming more urgent. As the season progresses, the decisions made in these early games will likely shape the trajectory of the entire campaign. The situation at Dinamo reflects a larger challenge faced by many clubs in balancing tradition with modern demands. Kovačević's tenure has been marked by high expectations, yet the results have not fully aligned with those hopes. The upcoming matches will serve as a litmus test for the coaching staff, revealing whether they can adapt and improve the team's performance. For now, the focus remains on addressing immediate concerns, but the path forward requires careful planning and strategic thinking.