APR FC’s Chairman Says Coach Darko Novic Has Not Reached a Level to Be Sacked - VIDEO

On Friday, February 7, 2025, APR FC officials, led by Brig. Gen. Deo Rusanganwa and head coach Darko Novic, held a press conference to assess the team's status before the start of the second round of the Rwanda Premier League 2024-25 season.

During the press conference, Brig. Gen Deo Rusanganwa was asked about the possibility of dismissing APR FC head coach Darko Novic. He responded that, although many people are calling for his removal, his current performance does not justify termination as he has not performed poorly.

Brig. Gen Deo Rusanganwa stated, "We must respect the contract the coach has with the team. I often hear you explaining it, meaning you understand its terms. You may question why he was given such a contract, but you should also ask how many matches he has lost.

"The coach is evaluated based on his points. Recently, he won the Heroes Cup. The only titles he has lost are the CAF Champions League and the Rwanda Super Cup. So far, he has not lost 50% of his matches to warrant his dismissal."

Brig. Gen Deo Rusanganwa acknowledged that some APR FC fans lack confidence in their coach, Darko Novic, but insisted that the priority is to honor the contract he has with the club. He said, "You say there is no confidence? No confidence, but let’s first respect the contract."

Although APR FC lost the CECAFA Kagame Cup final against Red Arrows, Brig. Gen Deo Rusanganwa pointed out that winning that tournament was not among the coach’s primary objectives. The main trophies Darko Novic was expected to win were the CAF Champions League and the Rwanda Super Cup, which he failed to secure, but he did win the Heroes Cup.

The trophies that APR FC's head coach is still competing for include the Rwanda Premier League title and the Peace Cup. If he manages to win both, then discussions about his dismissal will no longer be relevant, as he will have secured three out of the five titles he was tasked with winning.

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