Director reveals why Slavia Prague refused to punish Super Eagles star amid controversial exit

Slavia Prague's sporting director, Jiri Bilek has shed light on the club's decision not to impose any punishment on Peter Olayinka following his departure from the team, Soccernet.ng reports.

After spending five successful years at Slavia Prague, Olayinka opted to join Red Star Belgrade this summer.

Olayinka had been a standout player for Slavia Prague, and the club had expressed their desire to extend his contract.

However, negotiations between the two parties hit a stumbling block, and in January, the player announced his intention to join Serbian giants Red Star Belgrade once his contract expired in July.

This announcement did not sit well with Slavia Prague initially, but despite popular demand, the club decided against banishing Olayinka to the reserves.

Their faith in him was rewarded, as he repaid by scoring crucial goals and providing valuable assists, helping Slavia Prague secure a second-place finish in the league and win the Czech Cup.

During an interview with PolsatSport, sporting director Bilek provided further insights into the controversy surrounding Olayinka's departure.

Bilek stated, “We wanted to extend his contract because he was not only an important player for us but also someone who strongly identified with our club. Moreover, he has contributed significantly to Slavia's success.

“When negotiations reached an impasse, both sides mutually agreed to end the talks and part ways amicably. Peter holds great importance for us, and there was never a question of relegating him to the reserves or removing him from the first team.

“He proved it in the spring, when he gave his all in every game he played. Anyway, in the Czech Republic, it is not popular to move a player to the reserve team because he has not extended his contract with the club.”

Slavia Prague bid a memorable farewell to Olayinka as one of the most accomplished players in the club's history.

The 27-year-old winger played a crucial role in securing three league titles and three cup titles for the Slavists. Furthermore, he held the distinction of being the club's top scorer in European competitions.