SERBIA boss Dragan Stojkovic has sensationally QUIT his job just minutes after the defeat to Albania. The former Watford flop Rey Manaj scored the only goal of the World Cup qualifier at the Dubocica Stadium, securing a victory for Albania. This defeat marked back-to-back losses for Serbia, following a 5-0 thrashing by England in September. With seven points, Serbia now sits in third place in Group K, trailing four points behind rivals Albania.
Stojkovic’s resignation comes amidst a historical and political rivalry between Serbia and Albania, particularly regarding Kosovo’s independence declaration in 2008. The tensions between the two nations often spill into football, as seen in a 2014 match that was abandoned due to a brawl sparked by a drone carrying an Albanian flag. The 60-year-old Stojkovic stated that he had already discussed his resignation with the president and general secretary immediately after the game. Despite his expectations for a Serbia victory, he took full responsibility for the defeat and expressed his accountability for the outcome.
The Serbian FA confirmed that youth coach Zoran Mirković will take over as the team’s interim manager, supported by coaching staff members Strahinja Pandurovic, Lazar Tomic, Aleksandar Kirovski, Dejan Odavic, and Bogdan Milićevic. Stojkovic, who had been in charge since 2021 and led the team to the 2022 World Cup and Euros in 2024, received appreciation from the FA for his contributions during his tenure. As Serbia prepares to face Andorra in their next qualifier, the abrupt departure of Stojkovic has left the team in a state of transition as they strive to bounce back from recent setbacks.
