“Mister” is Back: Stanković’s Homecoming Headlines Europa League Showdown at the Marakana
BELGRADE – The “Marakana” is preparing for an emotional earthquake this Thursday. For the first time since his return to the bench, club legend Dejan Stanković will lead Crvena Zvezda onto home turf in a high-stakes Europa League clash against Celta Vigo.
After a triumphant start to his second stint—a gritty 1-0 away victory against Malmö last week—the man affectionately known as “Deki” finally returns to the stadium where he achieved immortality as both a player and a coach.
A Return Defined by Momentum
Stanković’s return in December 2025 sparked a resurgence in the squad. The “Red-Whites” are currently riding a four-game winning streak in the Europa League, a run that has catapulted them into contention for a top-eight finish in the league phase.
The atmosphere in Belgrade is reaching a fever pitch. To ensure a wall of sound, the club’s recent “Red and White Blood” campaign saw nearly 500 fans donate blood in exchange for tickets, guaranteeing a sell-out crowd for Thursday’s 9:00 PM kickoff.
The Tactical Puzzle: Stopping the Spaniards
While the sentiment is high, the challenge on the pitch is steep. Celta Vigo arrives in Belgrade as one of the most technically refined sides in the competition.
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The Tactical Edge: Stanković is reportedly grappling with a “tactical riddle” on the right flank to counter Celta’s speed.
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The “Clean Sweep”: Off the pitch, Stanković has wasted no time asserting his authority. Reports today indicate a significant squad “reset,” with players like Shavy Babicka nearing an exit as the coach streamlines the roster for a deep European run.
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The Stakes: A win against the Spanish side wouldn’t just be a poetic homecoming for Stanković; it would potentially secure Zvezda a direct path to the Round of 16, avoiding the treacherous knockout playoffs.
Expected Lineup
Sources close to the club suggest Stanković may stick to the core that frustrated Malmö, likely led by the experience of Arnautović upfront and the creativity of Lučić in the midfield.
“The memory of Bern is our inspiration, but the Marakana is our strength,” a club official stated earlier today. “Having Dejan back in the dugout changes the energy of the entire stadium.”
Kickoff is set for Thursday, January 29, at 21:00 CET.
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