Slovak football is welcoming back a familiar face. Vladimir Weiss is set to return as head coach of the national team, the Slovak Football Association (SFZ) announced Tuesday, following the resignation of Italian manager Francesco Calzona last month.
Weiss, 61, is no stranger to the role. He previously led Slovakia from 2008 to 2012, masterminding their historic run to the Round of 16 at the 2010 FIFA World Cup—the nation's debut appearance on the sport's biggest stage. Since 2021, he has been at the helm of domestic powerhouse Slovan Bratislava, securing the league title every season of his tenure.
"The selection committee unequivocally approved Weiss for the job," confirmed SFZ vice-president Karol Belanik, signaling strong confidence in the veteran coach's return.
Calzona stepped down after Slovakia failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, suffering a dramatic 4-3 home defeat to Kosovo in the play-off semi-finals in March. This came despite a strong qualifying campaign that saw them finish second in Group A behind Germany. Under Calzona, the team also impressed at Euro 2024, upsetting Belgium in the group stage before falling to England after extra time in the Round of 16.
Weiss brings a wealth of experience both on and off the pitch. A former midfielder, he represented Czechoslovakia at the 1990 World Cup in Italy. Known for his outspoken personality, he now takes the reins of a squad eager to rebound.
Interestingly, football runs deep in the Weiss family. His son, Vladimir Weiss Jr., is a midfielder for Slovan Bratislava, with past stints at clubs like Manchester City, Rangers, and Espanyol. The coach's father—also named Vladimir—helped Czechoslovakia secure the Olympic silver medal in men's football at the 1964 Tokyo Games.
With a proven track record and a legacy of success, Weiss's return could be just what Slovakia needs to reignite their World Cup ambitions.