Omonia faces competition from Maribor for the signing of Zan Karnicnik

Slovenian international defender Zan Karnicnik has officially parted ways with his former club, Celje, where he served as captain. Omonia has been in advanced negotiations with the 30-year-old player since mid-May, aiming to bolster their defensive line. Despite Omonia's expectation of finalizing the deal, reports from July 3, 2026, indicate that NK Maribor, led by sports director Zlatko Zahovic, has entered the race to sign the player. Some reports suggest that Maribor's intervention creates an obstacle for Omonia, while others highlight that the player's primary preference remains continuing his career abroad. Karnicnik, a key figure in his previous club's history, is currently a free agent. Omonia remains optimistic that their project, which includes competing in the Champions League, will persuade the defender to join the Cypriot team.