(PREGLED) Prva liga se vrača: Od remontov v Stožicah in Ljudskem vrtu do celjskih sanj o ligi prvakov

The Slovenian First League returns after a hiatus, marking the start of its 36th season with ten clubs competing in the top tier of domestic football. The new campaign begins tonight, bringing changes to both the structure and dynamics of the league. While Celje will aim high with ambitions of qualifying for European competitions, other teams have their own distinct plans and preparations. Each club has undergone transformations, whether through player departures, arrivals, or strategic shifts in management. The Aluminij team from Kranj enters the new season with a historic mission, qualifying for European cups for the first time. Their preparations have already begun, even before the official start of the season. Coach Jure Arsić's squad faces its opening match against Maribor, a rivalry that has defined much of their recent history. Despite losing key players such as captain Matjaž Rozman, Behar Feto, Emir Saitoski, Filip Kosi, and Aleksander Zeljković, the club has strengthened its ranks with new signings. Among them is Murat Bajraj, the top scorer in the second division last season, along with Bede Amarachi Osuji, who returns to the top flight, and Matija Boben, adding experience to the squad. Aluminij aims to balance its focus between domestic competition and continental aspirations during the early stages of the season. Bravo, based in Ljubljana, is another team poised for change. After achieving third place in the previous season and securing a spot in the Conference League’s second round, the club has set ambitious goals. However, this season marks a transition as Dejan Močnik steps down from his role as sports director, a position he held for nearly two decades. The team has also lost Martin Pečar, its former captain, who joined Spanish second division side Tenerife. New additions include Venuste Baboula and Fallou Faye, who moved to Slovan Liberec, while Admir Bristrić departed as the team's leading scorer. Meanwhile, Matjaž Rozman has found a new home in Ljubljana, and Aldin Jakupović returned from a loan spell at German club Kiel. Additional reinforcements came from Aluminij with Marko Simonić and from Lyon with defender Ibrahim Halilou. These moves suggest Bravo is building toward a stronger season ahead. Brinje Grosuplje makes its debut in the First League, marking a historic milestone for the club. This is the first time they will compete among the top ten teams in Slovenia. The challenge lies in adapting to the elite level, especially since their stadium in Grosuplje lacks the necessary upgrades to meet First League standards. Club president Andraž Zrnec remains committed to hosting matches at their home ground, despite the limitations. Under coach Goran Markovič, the team has made significant reinforcements, including Jasmin Kurtić, a long-time national representative, whom the club considers the biggest addition in its history. Other transfers include Rok Maher and Nal Lan Koren from Aluminij, Žan Mešak on loan from Maribor, and Enej Marsetič from Bistrica. With these additions, Brinje Grosuplje is ready to take on the challenges of the top flight. Celje, reigning champions, enter the new season with confidence and clear objectives. The team, led by coach Vitor Campelos, is focused on securing a place in the Champions League qualifiers. Before facing their first opponents, however, they must contend with the absence of three key players from last season, Žan Karničnik, Juan Nieto, and Nikita Josifov, who have all moved on. To compensate, Celje has brought in Matic Ivanšek, Žiga Frelih, and Pijus Širvys, all familiar figures on the Slovenian football scene. Further reinforcements include Veton Tusha and Leonard, whose contributions could help maintain the team's competitive edge. The club's ambitions extend beyond the domestic front, with European campaigns already on the horizon. Their first test comes in the form of a home game against Mura, which will provide an early indication of how well they can adapt to life without their former leaders.