Victor Olatunji, Nigerian striker for Sparta Prague, was left out of the squad during their recent 1-0 defeat to Slovan Liberec in the Chance League, not due to injury but as a result of disciplinary action. Head coach Lars Friis confirmed after the match that Olatunji’s omission was because he arrived late to training sessions.
Friis emphasised the importance of discipline and professionalism within the club, stating:
“Victor was late this week. We have to defend our environment, that’s why I couldn’t nominate him. One of the things we talk about is being the best at what doesn’t require any talent. And being somewhere on time doesn’t require any talent.”
Sparta Prague had been enjoying a strong run of nine consecutive victories, including a derby win. However, the coach made it clear that preserving the team atmosphere and principles took priority over individual talent:
“It sucks, he could have been useful for us today, but for me, the atmosphere in the club is the most important thing.”
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This loss puts Sparta at risk of dropping to third place in the league standings. Olatunji’s return to the squad remains uncertain, and he will need to prove his commitment and adhere to club standards to regain his place.
Editorial
Victor Olatunji’s exclusion from Sparta Prague’s squad serves as a reminder that professionalism off the pitch is just as important as performance on it. In top-level football, punctuality and discipline are non-negotiable. It’s not just about skill it’s about demonstrating respect for the team, the coaching staff, and the club’s values.
For Sparta Prague, this decision sends a powerful message: no player is bigger than the collective environment. Coaches who uphold such standards often build teams that are not only tactically sound but also mentally resilient. Friis’ willingness to sacrifice short-term results for long-term discipline could strengthen the club’s culture in the long run.
For Olatunji, this setback should be seen as a learning moment. Players have short careers, and professionalism can determine whether they reach their full potential or fade away prematurely. If he returns with the right attitude, this episode could ultimately shape him into a more mature and dependable player.
Did You Know?
- Sparta Prague is one of the most successful clubs in Czech football history, with over 30 league titles.
- Victor Olatunji previously played for Slovan Liberec, the club that defeated Sparta in this match.
- The concept of “being the best at things that require no talent,” such as punctuality and effort, is widely used by coaches in elite sports teams globally.
- The longest unbeaten run in Sparta Prague’s modern history was 27 games, achieved in the 2019/2020 season.
- Late arrivals to training have also led to disciplinary exclusions in other top clubs, including players like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang at Arsenal and Ousmane Dembélé at Barcelona.
