Another summer addition to the DAC squad is Žan Trontelj, who joins the club from Ukrainian Premier League side Zorya Luhansk. After completing his medical examination and finalising all formalities, the 26-year-old Slovenian footballer signed a two-year contract with DAC today, including an option for a further season.

Born in Grosuplje on 21 January 2000, Trontelj primarily operates as a right-back, but he has also regularly featured on the right side of midfield.

He started playing football at the age of six at his hometown club NK Brinje Grosuplje. At the age of ten, he moved to the NK Bravo academy, where he progressed through all youth categories before making his way into the first team. He made more than 130 competitive appearances for Bravo, before joining NS Mura in the summer of 2023.

A year later, he moved to Ukrainian side Zorya Luhansk, where he regularly featured in the Ukrainian Premier League. From there, he went on loan last season to Croatian top-flight club HNK Gorica. He helped the team finish seventh in the league and reach the semi-finals of the Croatian Cup, contributing four goals and five assists.

Žan Trontelj represented Slovenia at every youth level from U16 to U21. He will now continue his career in the yellow-and-blue colours, wearing the number 23 shirt.

“I am very happy and grateful to become part of DAC. The last few days have been a little hectic for me, but now everything is finally completed. From the moment I arrived, I could see that this is a great club with fantastic facilities that you simply do not find everywhere. I want to integrate into the team as quickly as possible and help the club achieve its goals.

“When I found out about DAC’s interest, I did not hesitate at all. I had only heard positive things about the club. In addition, the current situation in Ukraine is very difficult, so I am really happy to be here,” said Žan Trontelj after signing his contract.

His compatriot Klemen Nemanič also played a role in his decision. “I spoke with him, and we have some mutual friends. He told me only positive things about the club, which made my decision even easier. I want to win as many trophies as possible with the club and regularly play in European competitions. That is the most important thing for me.

“I am a footballer with a winning mentality, I always think positively. I want to play quality football, give maximum energy on the pitch and never give up. That is my style.”

“We were looking for a player who would increase competition at the right-back position while also fitting into the style of play we want to represent. Žan meets both of these criteria. He is at an excellent stage of his football career and has already gained valuable experience in the Slovenian, Ukrainian and Croatian leagues.

“We believe that his character and playing qualities will be an asset to our team and that he will continue to develop with us. We wish him a quick adaptation at DAC and hope he becomes an important part of our squad,” said DAC sporting director Jan-Pieter Martens.

Žan, welcome to DAC and we wish you many successes in the yellow-and-blue jersey!