Miron Muslić (foto: Getty Images)
Plymouth Argyle manager Miron Muslić reflects on his journey from war-torn Bosnia to facing Liverpool in the FA Cup, highlighting resilience and the universal power of football.
Plymouth Argyle manager Miron Muslić is preparing for what many see as an impossible challenge: leading his Championship-bottom side against Premier League leaders and six-time European champions Liverpool in the FA Cup this Sunday.
However, compared to Muslić’s life story, defeating Liverpool might seem like a minor hurdle.
In 1992, at just nine years old, Muslić was forced to flee his hometown of Bihać in Bosnia and Herzegovina as the brutal war unfolded. Last month, he took over as Plymouth manager from former England star Wayne Rooney.
"We had to leave Bosnia and Bihać, our hometown, literally overnight, grabbing whatever we could carry," Muslić told BBC Sport. "That’s where our journey began, or rather, our new life."
Muslić, along with his sister and parents, fled 650 km to Innsbruck, Austria, without knowing the language or what awaited them.
"Life has always been a struggle, but that struggle is part of my journey. That’s why I’m always optimistic and positive," said Muslić, who previously led Cercle Brugge to a spot in the Europa Conference League.
"I’ve faced far more challenging situations in life than being a head coach dealing with the possibility of a draw or a loss over the weekend. That’s also the message I want to constantly pass on to my players: life is a battle full of beautiful surprises, and there’s always something worth fighting for."
From refugee to football manager
Muslić credits his parents for ensuring their family had everything they needed despite the hardships. His father worked as a waiter for over 30 years, and his mother was a cleaner.
"Everything that’s happened in the last 30 years has shaped me into the person I am today and helped me achieve things that might have seemed impossible. But nothing is impossible if you truly believe, dedicate yourself, and give it your all," Muslić added.
It’s this belief and dedication Plymouth will need if they are to stun Liverpool—a team that topped their Champions League group and sits six points clear at the top of the Premier League under Arne Slot.
Muslić took charge of Plymouth Argyle as the club was sliding towards League One, sitting at the bottom of the Championship. To make matters worse, his best defender Lewis Gibson and top attacker Morgan Whittaker left during the transfer window.
However, there are signs of improvement. A 2-1 win over West Bromwich Albion ended a 15-game winless streak in the league.
Football as a universal language
Football has been a constant in Muslić’s life, helping him adjust to his new home in Austria and eventually leading him to coaching. As a teenager, he joined Wacker Innsbruck before embarking on a playing career across Austria’s top leagues and a brief spell in Croatia.
"Football is so important because it’s universal," he explained. "When you’re on a football pitch or on the street, your name, nationality, or whether you’re a refugee doesn’t matter. It’s all about the game. That’s the magic of football."
Muslić’s passion is evident to anyone who meets him. Whether Plymouth wins or loses against Liverpool on Sunday, Muslić embodies the belief that success is possible, no matter the obstacles.
"When I look around the Plymouth dressing room, it’s full of guys from all over the world, and it works. Imagine the world as a dressing room—that would be a great place to be," Muslić concluded.