Kosovo Prepares for Israel Clash in UEFA Nations League with Presidential Support
Kosovo has begun preparations for its UEFA Nations League match against Israel, receiving a visit from President Vjosa Osmani. Head coach Franco Foda's squad prepares in Pristina amidst minor injury concerns and fresh talent call-ups.
The Kosovo national football team has begun preparations for its upcoming UEFA Nations League home match against Israel, receiving a morale-boosting visit from Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani. The head of state met with the players ahead of their final two campaign fixtures against Israel and Ireland, assuring them of the nation's unwavering support.
"It is a special privilege to be here with you today and meet you in person," President Osmani told the squad. "I want to express my gratitude and appreciation on behalf of all citizens of the Republic of Kosovo for your impressive performances, both in your clubs worldwide and with the national team. Thank you for making us proud time and time again. Our country believes in you and will always stand by your side. Good luck in the upcoming matches. Let's go, Kosovo!"
The visit followed the opening of the training camp led by head coach Franco Foda at the Fadil Vokrri Stadium in Pristina. According to local media reports, only 15 players took part in the first training session at the national team complex, as several squad members were delayed due to weekend club commitments.
Among those participating in the session were captain Vedat Muriqi, Milot Rashica, Mergim Vojvoda, and Elvis Rexhbeçaj, alongside goalkeepers Arijanet Muriic, Amir Saipi, and Visar Bekai. Hoffenheim players Fisnik Asllani and Leon Avdullahu missed the opening workout due to club duties, alongside Edon Zhegrova. The squad is expected to reach full strength for the subsequent training sessions.
One of the notable storylines in the camp is the inclusion of 18-year-old VfB Stuttgart striker Anis Redzepi, who took part in his first training session with the senior national team. Local reports highlighted that the towering young forward stayed close to Muriqi during the warm-up, eager to learn from the veteran captain, who has previously hinted at a potential international retirement. Redzepi, regarded as one of Kosovo's brightest young prospects, has netted 16 goals and provided two assists in 18 appearances across youth and reserve competitions for Stuttgart this season.
Alongside the excitement surrounding new additions, coach Foda is grappling with squad setbacks. Valmir V. V. Aliu and Arbelin Osmani have been ruled out of the matches against Israel and Ireland due to injuries, while central defender Lumbardh Dellova remains doubtful. Meanwhile, defenders Lindrit Kamberi and Blerim Kurtulus have received their first call-ups to the national team.
Local media are also closely monitoring the situation within the Israeli national team. Reports highlighted the absence of 17-year-old Barcelona midfielder Orian Goren, who was sidelined from the squad due to an abdominal muscle injury. Analysts noted that the young talent had previously been included in the Catalan club's squad for El Clasico against Real Madrid last month, while confirming that Anan Khalaili will also be unavailable for the Israeli side.
Kosovo, currently sitting second in the group with five points, views the match against Israel as a crucial opportunity to improve its standing ahead of the campaign's conclusion. Israel occupies the bottom spot with two points, and three days after the clash in Pristina, Kosovo will wrap up the group stage with an away fixture against Ireland.
