Young Elmir Avdić, after scoring a bunch of goals in Rudar’s youth system, emphasizes: “I believe I am ready for senior football”
Photo: Personal archive
The inaugural season of the revamped youth Eon NextGen League was, according to many, a resounding success. We were able to see numerous talented footballers in action, including some who would not have been eligible to compete in this tier just a season ago. Opinions on whether this is right or not have been and always will be divided, but the fact is that young players need support. This support might be utilized in the new season by Elmir Avdić, a talented forward from Rudar in Velenje, who coped excellently with the challenges of the youth Eon NextGen League in the 2023/24 competitive year.
A footballer who played in the second youth league last season, scoring 20 goals in 24 matches, was the key attacking force for the club from the mining town. He recorded 28 appearances and scored 15 goals. He was the most efficient player on his team and the second top scorer in the entire Eon NextGen League. Only Jaka Domjan, a year older member of Mura, scored more goals.
Elmir Avdić: “The team breathed as one”
“Without a doubt, I am satisfied with my achievement and the games I have played. Second place on the top scorers’ list is honestly a great achievement for me. But at the same time, it’s just an additional motivation to work hard. I will continue to strive and believe that I can achieve much more,” Elmir Avdić, born in 2005, said to Football Planet in the introduction, despite playing in the second league last season: “No, absolutely not. I entered the 2023/24 season in very good spirits and full of optimism. However, I remained humble, and my expectations were accordingly. I never want to dream and fly in the clouds; I prefer to stay humble. And then – clearly – all the more satisfied with better results.”
Rudar undoubtedly surprised in the 2023/24 season; many, also because they came from the second league, ranked the young miners among the main candidates for relegation. In the end, the Velenje team finished in 10th place, with a significant advantage over the danger zone.
“Above all, we gave our all as a whole; the team breathed as one. But I am convinced that we still have a lot of potential and that this season was certainly not our maximum. We will go full steam ahead and I believe we will be even better next season,” says Elmir Avdić, who is pleased that he will also be able to continue helping the youth team. If he still plays for them, of course… “The decision to include three older players seems right to me, as it offers a great opportunity for those who are talented enough but perhaps not yet ready for senior football. By playing in the youth league, such a player gains minutes and experience and also builds confidence, which is – clearly – crucial in football.”
All options are open
After scoring 54 goals in the last three seasons, it seems that 19-year-old Elmir Avdić is ready for senior football. But is he really? “I think I have set quite high goals, but I am still satisfied with what I have achieved. Nevertheless, I believe I can do much more. As for senior football, I believe I am ready for it. Ready for the leap to the main stage. But football is a mysterious path, and you never know where it will actually take you. Above all, I will let myself be surprised,” says Elmir Avdić.
The talented miner has already been on trials abroad in the past and does not rule out the possibility of continuing his career outside Slovenia. “Every option that presents both a greater challenge and potential success is a valid option. I also strive for success and a good football career, so playing abroad is definitely not excluded. All options are open,” Elmir Avdić remained mysterious, but no matter where he plays in the future, he believes that in 10 years, he will be proud of the path he has taken.
“Where do I see myself in 10 years? As a successful footballer in a good club!” the top goal scorer of Velenje’s youth team quickly replied and concluded the interview for our website: “I will strive to actually succeed. Everyone involved in football wants to succeed. I am no exception. I want to be a good footballer, a role model, and someone people will love because of his football achievements. I am fortunate to feel the support of my loved ones, friends, and acquaintances, so I am even more determined to ensure my future is as I desire. Successful.”
This text was automatically translated using AI.
Author: editorial Football Planet