Stories from the other side – Mladen Rudonja: Not even for 10 million? If Delius revealed the whole truth about Elšnik, it would be quite interesting

Published on 3. February 2024 4. February 2024

Written by: Mladen Rudonja. Photo: Sportida. Graphics: WPM

Football is far more than just live broadcasts, dry match reports, transfer rumors, and clichés from the main actors. What the public sees is just one aspect of football; it’s interesting and often exciting. But there is also the side that is hidden from the eyes of ordinary mortals. On the other side, things happen that you wouldn’t believe. There are complications, adventures, anecdotes, incredible stories, bitter disappointments, failed plans, and much more. These are stories from the other side. Their stories. Stories of the main actors.

As the first guest storyteller for Planetnogomet.si, Mladen Rudonja joined in. The legendary native of Koper, who scored a goal for the World Cup and later left his mark in various ways with Olimpija, touched on Timi Max Elšnik in his third story from the other side. Among other things, he revealed an interesting anecdote about how the Dragons signed him, even though they actually had no money for him. Mladen Rudonja once again shared an unheard story. A story from the other side.

Timi Max Elšnik Photo: Vid Ponikvar / Sportida

I remember when Timi Max Elšnik came to me after one of the league games. He was very pleased with his performance, with his statistics. He grabbed me by the sleeve and said if I had seen how many accurate passes he made. That his percentage was extremely high. I looked at him and asked: “How many incorrect passes did you have?” When he realized that the essence of a defensive midfielder is not how many successful passes he makes but how many times he gives the ball away, he became the player he is today.
In addition, there is an interesting story about how Timi Max Elšnik even came to Olimpija. When it became clear that he wanted to leave England, where he played for Derby County, we showed interest, but it was a period when we actually had no money for reinforcements. We made it clear, but then Timi’s agent played a crucial role. Well, his former agent. We told him that we couldn’t pay the transfer fee, and he responded very fairly. He promised to settle all obligations to Derby and only wanted a percentage from the next sale in return. We agreed, and Timi became our player.

Timi Max Elšnik Photo Source: NK Olimpija Ljubljana

But when he came to Ljubljana, it wasn’t easy for him. He had a challenging period behind him, was injured, and got injured at our winter preparations. But I knew one thing: if he managed to prove himself in England, it means he’s a real fighter. I played on the Island myself and know how tough it is to play there. And how difficult it is to prove yourself, regardless of the league you play in. I was sure he would bounce back sooner or later, even though he needed his time. The coach initially saw him more on the wing, although it became clear over time that he was much stronger in the position of a defensive midfielder. Then he grew and grew with games, and in the end, he proved that he can play at the highest level. I am really happy for him. Everything he achieved, he earned himself. And, of course, we believed in him…

Not long ago, I was a bit surprised that he changed agents; his previous one did a lot for him… He fought for him all the time. But OK, I won’t delve into their affairs. I recently read with a good measure of surprise the statement of Adam Delius, who said that he wouldn’t sell Timi Max Elšnik even for 10 million euros. Hello?! If I were a journalist, I would ask him one question: why? Let’s be honest. Anyone normal in Slovenia would take a player to another club for 10 million euros. So I’m really curious: why. What’s behind this statement? Something is for sure… Who knows, maybe someone will someday dare to ask Adam Delius: why?

Timi Max Elšnik Olimpija — Photo: Grega Valančič / Sportida

Anyway, I feel sorry for Timi. My humble opinion is that he has already outgrown the Slovenian league a long time ago and urgently needs a step forward in his career. He should already be abroad by now. And because he isn’t, his career suffers the most. Timi has also earned a move to a higher level, but apparently, he is a victim of something beyond his control. I really hope that his desire to move abroad will come true soon.

I see him primarily in Germany. I think the Bundesliga would be an ideal league for him. Because he is strong, technically good, good in the air. He also has a powerful left foot. Ideal for the German league. In addition, he has incredible energy. And he is a positive guy. When he gets a chance, he takes it. And he wins you over with his energy. That’s why you believe in him, that’s why you trust him. He is an extremely grateful player, and coaches love such players. I am glad that even Matjaž Kek recognized all of this. Timi deserved the national team. He would also deserve a move abroad. Those 10 million just don’t make sense to me. That’s why: maybe someone will ask Delius someday, why… I think the answer could be very interesting. If he – of course – answers completely truthfully.