EXCLUSIVE: Sergej Jakirovic Discusses Hull’s Push for Play-Offs and His Manager of the Year Nomination

The Bosnian manager was brought in following Hull’s narrow escape from relegation to League One, amidst financial constraints imposed by an EFL transfer ban.

In spite of these obstacles, Jakirovic has transformed his squad into one of the most entertaining teams in the Championship, securing a place in the play-off positions with a four-point lead and only four matches remaining.

Consequently, the 49-year-old has earned a nomination for the Manager of the Season award, standing alongside Frank Lampard, whose Coventry side is dominating the league.

Reflecting on your first season in English football, how have you experienced the relentless pace of the Championship?

“I must admit that before the season started, or rather right after I signed with Hull, I consulted with numerous players and coaches who had navigated the Championship, so I had a general idea of what to expect.

“Yet, as with all things in life, experiencing it firsthand is crucial for gaining understanding that can be effectively applied.

“It’s worth mentioning that, along with my staff, I have worked at three clubs regularly competing in European tournaments, and adapting to a routine of playing two games each week was not difficult for us.

“However, the Championship is notorious for its intensity. Take Easter week, for example. We faced Oxford away on Good Friday, and by Monday, we were already hosting Coventry.

“There’s simply no time for celebrations, grieving, or extensive preparations. Overall, I would say we’ve adjusted well, as evidenced by our results.”

How has your rapport with the club evolved throughout the season?

“We hit it off right from the beginning, without question. For any coach, feeling a sense of trust from the club’s management is paramount. That support has been evident from day one.

“Mr Acun (Ilicali), the club owner, was keen on my appointment from the very start, and like in life, it’s great to be somewhere you feel wanted and valued.

“Since my arrival, our communication has been straightforward, and that tone has carried on through the season. We have all the necessary facilities, and the fans have acknowledged our efforts—drawing an average of around 20,000 supporters at each match, which serves as a vital motivation.

“Hull and the Yorkshire region offer a vibrant atmosphere; everyone who has visited has expressed pleasant surprise. We’re pleased on that front as well.

“The previous year was challenging for the team, only managing to secure safety on the final match day. This season, we’re achieving remarkable things, which certainly adds to the buoyancy surrounding the club.”

As you enter the final part of the season in the play-offs, what would it signify for Hull to make a return to the Premier League, especially after finishing in 21st place last year?

“Yes, we currently sit in the play-off positions with four rounds left, but that needs to be cemented on the pitch. Each game is a final, and we approach this weekend’s home fixture against Birmingham with that mentality.

“Discussing promotion to the Premier League is premature, particularly since we haven’t even secured our play-off spot mathematically yet, and we all understand the challenging environment we’d face there.

“Nonetheless, it would mark the pinnacle of anyone’s career—a potential play-off odyssey and promotion, if it were to come to fruition. That said, we won’t get ahead of ourselves. We absolutely need those three points this weekend, and then we’ll reassess the situation as the season concludes.”

What prompted such a significant improvement?

“I’d attribute it to hard work and faith in the process. From our initial match in Coventry, where we held the league leaders to a tough draw, it was a significant indication of our quality.

“It’s important to note that, due to the transfer embargo, we practically assembled the team on the fly. Following that, we faced a string of injuries, leading us to count who could be fit and available for matches amidst it all.

“Yet, when you maintain a united team through these challenges and instil a mentality of resilience, success follows.

“Moreover, the fans and the positive atmosphere surrounding the club have been pivotal, contributing to the wonderful narrative we are currently creating.”

You mentioned your pride in being nominated for Manager of the Year in the Championship—what do you attribute this achievement to?

“I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—everyone at the club plays a role in this success. From the players and my coaching staff to the hard-working individuals behind the scenes and within the community…

“Being nominated is undoubtedly a matter of great pride. To be mentioned alongside such prominent figures, including someone of Frank Lampard’s stature in a competitive league, is a remarkable accomplishment.

“I’m unsure how the awards ceremony will unfold, but being one of only four names among so many worthy coaches is an honour that signifies pride and responsibility for the future.”

How have you managed the pressure associated with a play-off chase? Your previous managerial experience in high-stakes competitions—has that been beneficial?

“I must first point out that the public perception was that we were in a desperate fight for survival. We all vowed to approach the season one game at a time and embrace whatever opportunities arose. And here we are.

“Personally, I’ve accumulated extensive experience over the years in coaching. As I mentioned earlier, you don’t allow yourself to become overly euphoric with wins, and after losses, you focus on the positives and extract lessons.

“I haven’t altered my coaching philosophy significantly since the beginning; however, I have evolved and improved at each club. Every experience, even the negative ones, offers a lesson.

“Understanding how to handle new situations and knowing what ultimately yields results are invaluable experiences.”