Sasa Kolman's Jim McGuinness connection rears its head once more 

Sasa Kolman’s unlikely Donegal connection is set to resurface once again this evening, as his Slovenia side prepares to face the Republic of Ireland in the UEFA Woman’s Nations League at Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

Kolman is a long-time friend of Donegal football boss Jim McGuinness after the pair first crossed paths during the latter’s time at the Celtic academy, shortly after he guided Donegal to All-Ireland glory in 2012.

Kolman, who masterminded a 4-0 win over Ireland back in February, previously spoke about the impact the Glenties man had on him.

“We sat down and chatted for an hour,” he recalled. “After that, I felt like I could conquer the world.”

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The two have kept in touch over the years, with Kolman revealing they shared a laugh on WhatsApp following February’s rout.

“He sent me an old headline from when we spoke at Celtic back in 2013,” Kolman said on the eve of the rematch. 

“It said I felt like I was ready to take on the world. He joked, ‘Sasa, you took it literally!’ I just told him, ‘Well, you were the one who told me I could!’ We don’t speak often, but there’s a great respect there.”

Though he missed Donegal’s win over Cavan at the weekend due to travel, Kolman has kept a close eye on McGuinness’s progress since his return to GAA management.

“I’ve been reading all about it. They absolutely hammered them. I always follow Donegal because of Jim.”

Kolman admitted he was disappointed when McGuinness stepped away from soccer coaching.

“I genuinely thought he had a big future in the game. But maybe that door isn’t closed yet. Whatever he turns his hand to, he does it brilliantly.”