Junuzovic speaks out on coaching future after Salzburg exit

In October 2025, Zlatko Junuzovic replaced Jens Wissing (now head coach at Al-Ittihad) as assistant coach in Thomas Letsch's coaching staff at FC Red Bull Salzburg.

Even after the German's departure, Junuzovic remained on board as Daniel Beichler's assistant until the end of the season. However, both had to leave after the season concluded with a third-place finish.

A Deliberate Break

Speaking to "Deichstube," Junuzovic now discusses his future: "At the moment, I'm deliberately taking a short break. During the World Cup, I worked as an expert for ServusTV and had four appearances there. That was a lot of fun. I can very well imagine doing more in that direction in the future."

However, the former Werder captain has not given up on his coaching career either. "Regarding coaching, there have been some discussions, but nothing I immediately wanted to commit to. That's why I'm taking my time. In parallel, I want to continue my coaching education and get my A-license. Everything else will then develop step by step," Junuzovic explains.

Praise for Schlager

Meanwhile, his former protégé in Salzburg, Alexander Schlager, has signed with Werder Bremen, where he will compete with Karl Hein.

"He is a very good goalkeeper – especially on the line and in his positioning. He is also strong in build-up play, can handle the ball very well, and also plays courageous vertical passes. That's exactly what a modern goalkeeper needs today," he praises the Salzburg native.

Junuzovic believes that both goalkeepers will benefit from the race for the number one spot. "They will push each other and thus get better. In the end, the goalkeeper coach and the head coach will jointly decide who is number one. For Alex, it's a great opportunity to experience the Bundesliga and a club like Werder up close," says the former assistant coach of the ÖFB goalie.

Will Romano Schmid Stay?

Romano Schmid will wear the number ten in Bremen in the future; a departure for the Styrian had long been speculated. Currently, however, much points to him staying at the Weser.

"Of course, you think about offers – that's part of professional football. A career isn't endlessly long, so you have to deal with such matters. At the same time, you also know what you have in a club. That was the case for me back then too. If the identification is right, the solidarity with the fans is there, and the family feels comfortable, then those are important arguments for staying. If all these things fit, then he should stay," Junuzovic says about his compatriot.