By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Virtus Bologna president Massimo Zanetti has revealed the real reasons behind the unexpected midseason departure of head coach Dusko Ivanovic. During a press conference on Tuesday, the 78-year-old owner dismissed ongoing rumors and clarified the internal dynamics of the club.
“He was removed not because of my will, but because of the players and Ivanovic himself,” he stated, explaining that the modern generation of players desires more freedom. This clash of mentalities led to weekly arguments starting as early as preseason training camp, ultimately peaking when four players threatened to leave if the Montenegrin tactician stayed.
Following an interim stint by assistant Nenad Jakovljevic, which ended in the Semifinals of Italy’s LBA UnipolSai Playoffs 2026 opposite Umana Reyer Venice, Virtus is turning the page. The club is embracing a new technical philosophy under Alex Mumbru, while simultaneously reducing its budget from 28 million to 25 million euros for the 2026–27 season.
“We’ve chosen a different path,” Zanetti noted, previewing the next edition of the EuroLeague and domestic competitions. “We want a younger team with players who have already proven their worth, but at sustainable costs. Prices have skyrocketed, and we need to spend wisely.”
He also confirmed the departure of long-time guard Alessandro Pajola. “We made him a generous offer, and I spoke to him three times. However, he feels the need to gain a different experience, possibly abroad,” Zanetti explained.
Major corporate shifts are also on the horizon for the Italian franchise. Zanetti confirmed advanced negotiations with investment funds interested in acquiring the club and securing a permanent €50-million EuroLeague license.
Additionally, the construction of a new 12,000-seat arena is rapidly approaching reality.
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