Ivan Prelec has been re-appointed as the head coach of Vejle Boldklub, less than nine months after leaving the position. The Superliga club announced that Prelec has signed a contract that extends until the summer of 2027.

Prelec’s return comes after a previous stint with Vejle, where he experienced both relegation and promotion. He initially took charge in March 2022 but could not prevent the team’s relegation. However, he subsequently led them back to the Superliga the following year, where they finished ninth in their first season after promotion. A series of nine consecutive defeats at the beginning of last season led to his departure.

Sports director Mikkel Hemmersam stated that Prelec met all four criteria set for the new coach: a skilled leader, knowledge of Danish football, tactical and technical expertise, and experience with academy football “at the highest level in European football.”

Prelec acknowledged that he agreed to return even when it seemed likely that Vejle would be in the 1st Division. He expressed his belief that he is the right person to guide the club’s desired development, working in collaboration with the coaching staff.

The club had previously replaced Prelec with Mihai Teja, but he was dismissed before the spring season. Steffen Kielstrup and Johnny Mølby then stepped in as interim coaches, successfully ensuring the team’s survival in the Superliga. Despite their efforts, the club decided to move in a different direction.

Morten Bisgaard, formerly the U19 coach at FC Copenhagen and with previous experience in various roles at Vejle, will serve as Prelec’s assistant. Marijo Jovic, also from Croatia, will be another assistant coach. The club anticipates appointing a third assistant before the new season begins.