For the first time since 2010, Montenegrin handball players will miss the spotlight after 17 major competitions. This marks a significant departure from being part of the most prominent narratives in sports.

The “lionesses” had hoped for a fourth consecutive Olympic appearance, but unfortunately, Slovenia and Germany outperformed them, heading from Ulm to Paris, while Bojana Popović will be watching the Games from her living room this time.

While it may seem disheartening now, it’s not entirely bleak. Our team exhibited commendable determination and spirit in southern Germany, aspiring for Olympic rounds, yet this time it just wasn’t meant to be, as our competitors were superior.

Something essential was lacking for Paris—perhaps that vital spark that could have made a difference and illuminated their path to the City of Light was too far from Ulm—specifically, a healthy, well-prepared squad.

“Slovenia was stronger; they currently have a better rotation and superior defenders—especially those who can shoot from distance,” stated Bojana Popović following the loss to national team Dragan Adžić.

The Montenegrin team intentionally began this significant challenge in the past three years without their strongest roster. They were unable to influence the absence of two injured players, Djurdžina – Jauković and Malović, as well as Ivan Godech and others for similar reasons. However, they opted to contend for Paris without relying on a crucial player that Slovenia had, specifically one who plays in the fullback position.

Though there are no assurances that Montenegro would have qualified for Paris with Milena Raičević, particularly since she does not fill the back-shooting role, the chances would have significantly improved. The other players in that position would have been fresher, and Milena’s sharp instincts and assists would have benefited the entire team of “lionesses.”

After all, the current Rapida handball player from Bucharest demonstrated in her last match for Montenegro against Turkey during the EHF Euro qualification how much her involvement can shift momentum. It was also evident how much her presence was missed during the World Cup and previous matches against Serbia, Turkey, and in Ulm…

While it is the selector’s prerogative to work with those she has the utmost trust in—ensuring they contribute positively to the team’s atmosphere, especially since she bears full responsibility for the results—it is crucial to consider the broader perspective and prioritize the national team’s interests over club and personal ambitions. This is what the Federation emphasizes…

For the “Paris 2024 project,” Slovenia welcomed back their phenomenal “bomber,” Anna Gross. It’s clear that at this crucial juncture for Montenegrin handball, Milena could not be excused for her dispute with Buducnost Bemax over unpaid wages.

This price is steep, and for Bojana Popović, whether she continues leading Montenegro or any future coach (or coaches), the takeaway must be that only the best should play.

The next significant opportunity arises in November, as the European Championship commences and the new Olympic cycle begins.

Who’s Next for Bojana? Maja Savić, Igor Marković, Suzana Lazović…

Following the disappointment in qualifications, Bojana Popović mentioned that even if the team had qualified for the Olympic Games, she had considered stepping down as the national team coach.

The defeats in Ulm appear to confirm that the legendary player may not lead the “lionesses” in the future, prompting the Handball Association of Montenegro to seek new leadership.

The frontrunner to succeed Bojana is her assistant and former teammate, the esteemed Maja Savić, who has previously coached many currently active senior national team players in younger selections.

In addition to her, another potential candidate is ex-Montenegrin player Igor Marković, who has garnered attention early in his coaching career through his work with the women’s junior national team and the handball players of Rudar.

Another possible solution could be Suzana Lazović—the former pivot whose successful coaching engagement with China’s junior teams saw them reach the finals of the Asian Championship.

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