Suzana Lazović never anticipated a seamless transition when she took the helm of the Montenegrin national team. She stepped in during a period of generational shifts, with some players poised to say goodbye to the national jersey, resulting in certain unexpected developments for the new coach.

Jelena Radivojević’s absence from the European Championship invitation and her prior announcement to retire from the national squad before the upcoming gathering in March took everyone by surprise.

Lazović admitted she was caught off guard regarding Radivojević’s decision just days before the European Championship and the recent gathering.

“What she communicated just before the European Championship and this latest gathering was quite challenging for me. I believe she should have shown more responsibility towards the coaching staff and the Montenegrin national team,” emphasized the Montenegrin coach.

The guard player mentioned on both occasions that family issues forced her to decline the invitation.

“In matters concerning family, I will always support her,” added Lazović.

According to Lazović, it appears Radivojević might not only be stepping away from the national team.

“From the message I received, I gathered she may have said farewell to both the club and the national team, but we will see,” Suzana noted.

She underscored that representing the national team supersedes any club obligation and that everyone should respond to the call.

“Clubs shouldn’t take precedence, no matter the financial implications. Ultimately, this is about our country, our identity, where everyone should come together. The Montenegrin national team opens doors for youth to join bigger clubs. While I feel a sense of disappointment, I respect her decision. We will see how the Federation moves forward in this regard.”

Following Milena Raičević, Marina Rajčić, and Jelena Radivojević, Montenegro may also face the absence of Itana Grbić, who announced after the European Championship her intentions to step back from the national team. Although she will miss this gathering, it may not be the last word from her regarding national play.

“Having been part of the national team for ten years, Itana deserves a break, and I fully support her decision. We haven’t discussed her return timeline, but I believe she’ll always stand by Montenegro considering all she’s contributed. I’m optimistic we might see her back by April,” explained Suzana Lazović.

During this EHF week, the coach can count on 22 players, marking the beginning of preparations for the play-off against Portugal for a spot in the World Cup.

“Facing Portugal won’t be easy; they are a tough competitor for any stronger squad. I believe in our team, and every player here deserves this opportunity, and I’m confident they will meet the coaching staff’s expectations this week and in future gatherings,” concluded Suzana Lazović.

The “Lionesses” are set to play their first play-off match on April 9th in Portugal, while the return match will occur in Podgorica three days later.

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