Rožman Out – Osijek Axe Boss After Winless Streak Rocks Opus Arena

NK Osijek have officially parted ways with head coach Simon Rožman after a string of poor results, confirming his departure from the Opus Arena on Wednesday afternoon.

The Slovenian manager’s exit had been widely expected following three consecutive defeats and a disappointing start to the season that left Osijek struggling for consistency in the HNL.

Club Confirms Mutual Termination

In an official statement, Osijek thanked Rožman and his staff for their professionalism and commitment, while acknowledging that results had not met expectations.

“Simon Rožman is no longer the coach of NK Osijek. We would like to thank Simon and his entire staff for everything they have provided to the club — not only their knowledge and experience but also their human values. We regret the lack of better results, but we must look forward and continue this fight. We wish them all the best in the future,”the club wrote.

Rožman departs after managing 23 matches in all competitions, registering just six wins, five draws, and twelve defeats — an average of one point per game, the lowest of his coaching career.

The 42-year-old previously managed clubs such as Rijeka and Maribor, but struggled to replicate his earlier success in Osijek.

Simon Rožman više nije trener NK Osijek.
Simonu i cijelom njegovom stožeru ovim putem želimo zahvaliti na svemu što su pružili Klubu – ne samo znanje i iskustvo, nego i ljudske vrijednosti koje su svakodnevno pokazivali. ⚪️🔵 pic.twitter.com/KKtyGlKwQl

— NK Osijek (@nkosijek) October 29, 2025

Player Reactions and What Comes Next

In a twist that caught fans’ attention, several Osijek players, including Luka Vrbančić, Kemal Ademi, and Oleksander Petrusenko, were seen liking the club’s social media post announcing Rožman’s departure — a gesture that has fuelled speculation of dressing-room unrest.

Osijek’s management are expected to move quickly in naming a replacement, with the club eager to stabilise their form before the winter break. The team currently sits mid-table in the SuperSport HNL, having failed to build momentum despite strong performances earlier in the campaign at the newly built Opus Arena.

The end of Rožman’s tenure marks another chapter in a turbulent season for Osijek, whose ambition to challenge the likes of Dinamo Zagreb, Hajduk Split, and Rijeka has faltered amid inconsistent form and mounting pressure.