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Leeds United new boy Jaka Bijol on the Premier League, a busy summer, and the Tour de France

Jaka Bijol: The Slovenian Defender Eyeing a Premier League Dream with Leeds United

In the heart of Udine, where the Friulian Alps loom in the distance, Jaka Bijol sits down for a candid conversation about his journey from a small Slovenian town to becoming one of Europe's most talked-about central defenders. At 26, Bijol has already carved out a reputation as a commanding presence on the pitch, blending tactical intelligence with physical prowess. But it's his recent links to Leeds United that have sparked intrigue, especially after Slovenia's impressive showing at Euro 2024. In this exclusive interview, Bijol opens up about his career highs, the challenges of adapting to new leagues, and why a move to Elland Road could be the next chapter in his evolving story.

Bijol's footballing odyssey began in the modest surroundings of Bilje, a village near the Italian border in Slovenia. "I grew up kicking a ball around with friends in the streets," he recalls with a smile. "Football was everything to us. There weren't many distractions – just the game." His talent was evident early on, leading him to join the youth setup at Primorje before making his professional debut with Koper in the Slovenian PrvaLiga at just 18. It was there that he caught the eye of scouts, his ability to read the game and distribute from the back setting him apart in a league not known for producing defensive prodigies.

The move abroad came swiftly. In 2018, Bijol signed with CSKA Moscow, a leap into the unknown that tested his resilience. "Russia was a shock," he admits. "The cold winters, the intense training, the pressure of playing in front of massive crowds – it was all new. But it made me stronger." At CSKA, he honed his skills under coaches like Viktor Goncharenko, contributing to a team that challenged for titles in the Russian Premier League. His time there included loan spells at Hannover 96 in the Bundesliga and Kayserispor in Turkey, experiences that broadened his tactical horizons. "In Germany, it's all about precision and discipline," Bijol explains. "Turkey taught me about passion and improvisation. Each league adds a layer to your game."

By 2022, Bijol had settled at Udinese in Serie A, a club that has become a breeding ground for talents like Alexis Sanchez and Roberto Pereyra in the past. Under coaches like Luca Gotti and later Andrea Sottil, he established himself as a cornerstone of the defense. His performances have been pivotal in Udinese's mid-table stability, with Bijol often praised for his aerial dominance – standing at 6'3", he wins an impressive number of headers – and his composure on the ball. "Serie A is relentless," he says. "You face world-class attackers every week. It forces you to think two steps ahead." His stats speak volumes: consistent appearances, high pass completion rates, and a knack for crucial interceptions. But it's his leadership that stands out; Bijol has captained Udinese on occasion, a role he relishes.

Internationally, Bijol has been a mainstay for Slovenia since his debut in 2018. The pinnacle came at Euro 2024, where Slovenia reached the knockout stages for the first time, holding powerhouses like England to a draw. Bijol was instrumental, marshalling the backline alongside stars like Jan Oblak. "That tournament changed everything for us," he reflects. "We showed we could compete with anyone. For me personally, it was validation. Playing against Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham – you learn so much." His displays earned rave reviews, with analysts comparing his style to a young Giorgio Chiellini: tough, intelligent, and unflappable.

It's this form that has drawn interest from clubs across Europe, including Leeds United. The Championship side, under manager Daniel Farke, has been rebuilding after narrowly missing promotion in the 2023-24 playoffs. Leeds' defense has been a point of focus, with departures and inconsistencies prompting a search for reinforcements. Bijol's name has surfaced repeatedly in transfer rumors, with reports suggesting a potential €10-15 million move. "Leeds is a club with incredible history," Bijol says thoughtfully. "I remember watching them in the Premier League as a kid – the passion of the fans at Elland Road, the intensity of their play. It's exciting to think about."

When pressed on what appeals to him about a potential switch to England, Bijol doesn't hesitate. "The Premier League is the ultimate challenge," he enthuses. "The speed, the physicality – it's non-stop. I've played in different leagues, but England would push me to new limits. Leeds has that underdog spirit; they're fighting to get back to the top, and I love that mentality." He draws parallels to his own career, marked by steady progression rather than overnight stardom. "I'm not the flashy type. I work hard, stay grounded. That's what Leeds seems to value – players who grind it out."

Bijol also touches on how he'd fit into Farke's system. Known for his high-pressing, possession-based approach, Farke has molded Leeds into a team that dominates games through control and quick transitions. Bijol's ball-playing ability – he averaged over 50 passes per game in Serie A last season with high accuracy – would complement that. "I like building from the back," he explains. "In modern football, defenders aren't just stoppers; we're the first attackers. At Udinese, we've played out under pressure, and I'd bring that to Leeds." His versatility is another asset; capable of playing in a back three or four, Bijol could slot alongside Joe Rodon or Pascal Struijk, adding height and experience to a relatively young squad.

Yet, Bijol is pragmatic about the realities of a transfer. "Nothing is decided yet," he cautions. "I'm happy at Udinese; they've given me a platform. But if the right opportunity comes, you have to consider it. Football moves fast." He speaks of the cultural adjustment, having lived in multiple countries. "Moving to England would be another adventure. Learning the language, adapting to the food – I've done it before. Slovenia will always be home, but I'm open to new chapters."

Beyond the pitch, Bijol reveals a more personal side. He's an avid reader, favoring books on history and psychology to sharpen his mental edge. "Football is 90% mental," he says. "You have to stay focused amid the noise." Family plays a big role; his parents and siblings remain in Slovenia, providing a support network. "They keep me humble," he laughs. "No matter how many games I play, I'm still the kid from Bilje."

As the interview winds down, Bijol reflects on his ambitions. "I want to win trophies, play in the Champions League, represent Slovenia at a World Cup," he states ambitiously. A move to Leeds could be a stepping stone, especially if they secure promotion. "Imagine playing in the Premier League derbies, the atmosphere – it's what every player dreams of." For now, he's focused on the upcoming Serie A season with Udinese, but the allure of England lingers.

In Jaka Bijol, Leeds United could find not just a defender, but a leader ready to embrace the challenge. His story is one of perseverance, from village pitches to European stages, and it might just lead him to the white-hot intensity of English football. As he puts it: "The journey isn't over. There's always more to achieve." Whether at Udinese or potentially in Yorkshire, Bijol's trajectory points upward, a testament to his unyielding drive.

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Read the Full The New York Times Article at:
[ https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6506962/2025/07/22/jaka-bijol-interview-leeds/ ]