“We enter the second leg of the competition with humility and a duty to save ourselves in the third league.”
FC Lokomotíva Košice enters the spring part of the season with a clear objective: stabilise the team, secure survival in the third division and build a squad capable of competing for promotion in the future.
Over the past months the historic club from eastern Slovakia has undergone significant changes. With Július Rezeš returning to football as the club’s General Manager, Lokomotíva has begun a new chapter focused on rebuilding both on and off the pitch.
Survival Comes First
Lokomotíva finished the autumn part of the season near the bottom of the III. Liga Východ table with eight points. The priority for the spring campaign is therefore clear — secure the club’s place in the league.
“We enter the second half of the season with humility and with the clear responsibility to stay in the third league. At the same time, we want to build a strong core of players that we can strengthen in the summer so that next season we can fight for promotion to the second division,” explained General Manager Július Rezeš.
Head coach Martin Juhar emphasised that the club is building a professional environment with clear standards.
“We have set certain principles. If the players follow them, they will feel comfortable here. If not, they simply will not be part of the team,” he said.
Major Squad Rebuild
The winter period brought a major transformation of the squad. Approximately 80–90 percent of the players are new, creating an almost entirely rebuilt team.
According to Juhar, patience will be important while the squad settles.
“A team is a living organism. We have different personalities, different football qualities and experiences. We want to work professionally and build things step by step, but everything takes time,” said the former Sparta Prague and Slavia Prague player.
Strong Conditions for a Third Division Club
Training conditions at the club have improved significantly in recent months. Players now have access to regular regeneration sessions, specialised gym training and swimming facilities.
During the league season the team will also move to the Čermeľ Stadium, where the club has its traditional home and improved football environment.
“For a third division club we have exceptional conditions. Credit goes to the club owners and management. Even some first-league clubs would not be ashamed of facilities like these,” Rezeš added.
Experience and Young Talent
The new Lokomotíva squad combines experienced players with young prospects.
Players such as Erik Pačinda, Peter Kolesár, Ervín Matta and Milan Šimčák are expected to provide leadership and experience, while several younger players will gain valuable senior football experience while also supporting the club’s U19 team.
“Giving opportunities to young players is part of the club’s philosophy. It is up to them to prove that they deserve a place in the squad,” said Rezeš.
The Loky Brand Is Gaining Momentum Again
According to the club’s management, the perception of Lokomotíva has already begun to change.
“When I first arrived, the situation was very difficult. We were asking players to join us and many did not even answer the phone. Today it is the opposite — agents and players are contacting us and offering cooperation,” Rezeš explained.
A Special Year for the Club
The year 2026 is significant for Lokomotíva Košice as the club celebrates the 80th anniversary of its founding.
Experienced forward Erik Pačinda believes the team has the potential to achieve its goals.
“I would be happy if we secure survival as soon as possible. The conditions at the club are very good and it is up to us players to appreciate that and deliver results. Lokomotíva is a historic club that belongs at a higher level,” said the former Slovak international.
Pačinda is currently recovering from an ankle injury but hopes to return to training soon and help the team during the spring campaign.
Spring Season Begins at Home
Lokomotíva Košice will open the spring part of the III. Liga Východ season with a home match against ŠK Odeva Lipany.
Kick-off is scheduled for Saturday 7 March at 14:30 at Štadión Lokomotívy.
The goal is clear — start the spring campaign with a positive result and continue the rebuilding of the club.
Source: This article is based on an interview originally published by ŠPORT.sk
FC Lokomotíva Košice preparing for the spring part of the III. Liga Východ season.
