Great news before the crucial play-off: Koubek persuaded Darida to return
Former Czech national football team captain Vladimír Darida has accepted an invitation to return to the national team ahead of the World Cup qualification play-off.
Vladimír Darida, a veteran midfielder and former captain of the Czech football team, has decided to return to the national squad after nearly five years away from international duties. Following discussions with the new team coach Miroslav Koubek and general manager Pavel Nedvěd, Darida expressed his eagerness to contribute to the team's efforts in qualifying for the upcoming World Cup, which is set for the end of March. The announcement was made through the national team's social media channels.
Darida originally stepped back from the national team after the UEFA European Championship in 2021, marking a substantial pause in his international career. During his time as a player for the Czech Republic, he accumulated 76 caps, scoring eight goals, and also had the honor of leading the team as captain. His return is seen as a significant boost for the squad as they prepare for critical matches in the qualification process for the World Cup.
This return highlights the ongoing efforts by the national team management to reinforce and revitalize the squad ahead of major competitions. With the pressure mounting to secure a place in the World Cup, Darida's experience and leadership could play a pivotal role in navigating the challenges that lie ahead in the play-off matches.