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Matjaz KekSlovenian and Yugoslav footballer and coach
Date of Birth: 09.09.1961
Country:  Slovenia |
Content:
- Early Life and Playing Career
- Time Abroad in Austria
- Return to Slovenia and Retirement
- Coaching Beginnings
- Assistant Coach at Maribor
- Head Coach of Maribor
- National Team Coaching
- Personal Life
Early Life and Playing Career
Matija Kek was born in Maribor, Slovenia, and began his football career with hometown club NK Maribor. He made his debut in the 1979/80 season, playing as a defender in the Yugoslav Second League.
Time Abroad in Austria
In 1985, Kek moved to Austria to join FC Spittal in the Second Bundesliga. After four seasons, he transferred to GAK, where he remained until 1995.
Return to Slovenia and Retirement
Kek returned to Slovenia and played for Maribor as a libero. He won two Slovenian Cups, three Slovenian Championships, and competed in European competitions. He earned one cap for the Slovenian national team in a 1992 friendly against Cyprus.
Coaching Beginnings
After retiring, Kek joined Maribor's coaching staff as assistant to head coach Bojan Prašnikar. When Prašnikar was dismissed in 2000, Kek took over as caretaker manager until the end of the season.
Assistant Coach at Maribor
In 2001, Prašnikar returned as Maribor manager and brought Kek back as his assistant.
Head Coach of Maribor
In 2002, Kek became head coach of Maribor. He led the team to a championship title, overcoming an 11-point deficit to arch-rivals NK Olimpia. The following season, Maribor narrowly missed out on qualifying for the Champions League and finished third in the league. Kek resigned in 2004 due to poor results.
National Team Coaching
In 2006, Kek became coach of Slovenia's U15/16 team. In 2007, he was appointed head coach of the senior national team. Despite initial struggles, Slovenia finished second in the qualifying group for the 2010 World Cup. They defeated Russia in the playoffs and qualified for their first major tournament.
Personal Life
Kek is married and has a son who obtained his UEFA coaching license in 2006.
