Jaka Bijol captain news has emerged during the international break, with the defender handed the Slovenia armband while also opening up on his situation at Elland Road.
The 27-year-old has been named captain by new Slovenia manager Boštjan Cesar for the March fixtures, following a series of injuries to key players within the squad. The decision marks a significant moment for Bijol, who continues to establish himself both internationally and at club level.
At the same time, he has offered insight into the challenges he faces at Leeds United.
Jaka Bijol named Slovenia captain amid injury crisis
Slovenia will be without several senior players for the current international break, including Jan Oblak, Benjamin Šeško, Sandi Lovrić and David Brekalo.
As a result, Cesar has turned to Bijol to lead the side, placing responsibility on the Leeds United defender at a time of transition for the national team.
Speaking ahead of the fixtures, Bijol stressed the importance of moving forward after a difficult qualifying period.
“We learned from the previous cycle that this path is not very fast… we have a good foundation.” — Jaka Bijol, via Dnevnik
He also highlighted the role of new players in shaping the team’s progress under the new manager.
Leeds United role remains competitive
Despite his growing importance for Slovenia, Bijol acknowledged that his position at Leeds United is far from secure.
Since joining from Udinese in June 2025, he initially struggled for regular minutes before becoming more involved from October onwards.
He has now accumulated over 1,300 minutes across 18 Premier League appearances, including 13 starts.
| Stat (Premier League 2025/26) | Jaka Bijol |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 18 |
| Starts | 13 |
| Minutes played | 1,309 |
| Role | Rotational starter |
source: sofascore match data – 23 March 2026
However, consistency in selection remains a challenge.
“It’s a constant battle for a place in the team. I’m happy with my position, one week it’s better, the next it’s worse.” — Jaka Bijol
Why Bijol’s situation matters for Leeds
From recent matches we’ve covered, Leeds United have relied on rotation in defence, creating competition for places across the back line.
Bijol’s comments reflect that environment, where performances must be maintained consistently to secure a starting role.
Having followed Leeds closely this season, the defensive setup has often changed depending on opposition and availability, contributing to fluctuating individual minutes.
However, it remains too early to determine whether Bijol will establish himself as a permanent starter moving forward.
Key Insights
- Jaka Bijol has been named Slovenia captain for the international break
- Injuries to key players led to the decision
- He has played over 1,300 minutes for Leeds United this season
- The defender admits competition for places remains high
- His role at both club and international level is continuing to grow
What’s next for Jaka Bijol?
Bijol will lead Slovenia during the current international fixtures, aiming to help the team reset after a difficult qualifying period.
Upon returning to Leeds United, he will look to build on his recent involvement and secure a more consistent starting role in the final stretch of the season.
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