Hand over the mallet?
Ex-Talent Piplica Linked to FC Carl Zeiss Jena's Possible Return! But...
In the realm of German football, whispers about FC Carl Zeiss Jena's comeback swirl after rumors of Zak Paulo Piplica's potential return surfaced.
Recently, Piplica, who's had an unsuccessful run at Lok Leipzig's promotion playoffs, has left doubt hanging over his future in Saxony. His acquaintance with FC Carl Zeiss Jena, having spent around five years in their youth setup, might just be the right connection.
Could Piplica Slip Back into His Old Club, FC Carl Zeiss Jena?
Piplica, who battled his way up through the age classes starting from RB Leipzig, then joined Lok Leipzig in 2020. They came close to promotion this past season, but fell short in the contentious promotion playoffs against TSV Havelse. As Piplica's contract end date approaches in June, rumors of a return to FC Carl Zeiss Jena have sprung up.
Sporting Director Stands Firm: No Room for Piplica
However, sporting director Miroslav Jovic is leaving no room for Piplica to return. As reported by the "Ostthüringer Zeitung," "Piplica is not an uninteresting player, but we can't sign players to pad the squad," Jovic stated.
FCC already boasts a competent central midfield force, with players like Justin Schau, Moritz Fritz, or Hamza Muqaj leading the charge. Other positions demand immediate attention, Jovic noted, making it apparent that Pilica won't join the roster.
Reinforcements Needed: A Striker and a Goalkeeper
Jovic emphasized that FCC is primarily seeking a striker and a goalkeeper to strengthen the team. "Once we have a strong foundation, we'll reassess if there's a need for additional positions," Jovic shared.
With the club already well-stocked in central midfield, it seems Piplica won't be slipping back into his old club anytime soon. Check the "Ostthüringer Zeitung" for updates on FCC's goalkeeper strategy and their quest for a new player.
Although Piplica's past with FC Carl Zeiss Jena might offer an opportunity, the current sports director, Miroslav Jovic, has made it clear that he is not planning to bring Piplica back to the club due to their focus on acquiring a striker and a goalkeeper. Despite Piplica's potential return to German football, with interests from European leagues such as the Champions League, FC Carl Zeiss Jena's roster seems set without him in the near future.
