Róbert Polievka Returns to MFK Dukla Banská Bystrica

Róbert Polievka has returned to MFK Dukla Banská Bystrica on a three-year contract after MTK Budapest agreed to terminate his existing agreement. Polievka joins the club as a free agent on his 30th birthday, according to the player and club officials. He previously recorded 28 goals in 55 matches during his first stint with the team.

Why did Róbert Polievka return to MFK Dukla?

Polievka stated he sought more playing time than he was granted during his tenure in Budapest. He told reporters that he had been decided on a change for two months prior to the signing. While he considered remaining abroad, he cited a strong relationship with the people at Dukla as a primary reason for his return.

The move was catalyzed by a meeting in early 2026 between Polievka and MFK Dukla owner Peter Krnáč in Budapest. This occurred while Dukla held a 16-point lead in the II. liga, ensuring the club’s return to the top division.

Did You Know? Polievka previously shared the title of league top scorer with Slovan’s Barseghyan, with both players netting 13 goals in a single season.

What were Polievka’s statistics at MTK Budapest?

Polievka’s time in Hungary saw a decline in scoring compared to his previous form. He made 53 total appearances for MTK Budapest and scored 9 goals. In the 2024/2025 season, he scored 4 goals in 26 league matches, and in the 2025/2026 season, he recorded 3 goals in 20 league matches.

Despite the lower goal count, Polievka stated he does not regret the transfer. He claimed the experience made him a different person and player, though he admitted the sporting results were not what he had envisioned.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that bringing back a proven scorer like Polievka provides a newly promoted side with immediate tactical stability. By pairing him with another veteran like Michal Ďuriš, Dukla is prioritizing experienced leadership to navigate the challenges of the top flight.

How does this return affect the team’s attack?

MFK Dukla now features two former national team players in its attacking line: Róbert Polievka and Michal Ďuriš. Polievka identified Ďuriš as a significant motivation for his return, describing the veteran as a “legend.”

Kapitán MFK Dukla Banská Bystrica Róbert Polievka o sezóne, zraneniach aj plánoch do budúcnosti

The signing marks a return for a player who earned 10 caps for the national team, though he was not included in the final squad for the Euro 2024 tournament. His arrival as a free agent followed the professional termination of a contract that originally ran until June 2027.

What may happen next for Polievka and Dukla?

With a three-year contract in place, Polievka could become the focal point of Dukla’s offense as they return to the highest competition. The team may rely on the chemistry between Polievka and Ďuriš to secure their position in the league.

Depending on his fitness and playing time, Polievka may seek to replicate his previous form of 28 goals in 55 matches to regain visibility for national team selection.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Róbert Polievka join MFK Dukla Banská Bystrica?

He joined as a free agent after MTK Budapest agreed to terminate his contract, which was originally set to expire in June 2027.

What is Polievka’s previous scoring record with Dukla?

He played 55 matches in the Niké liga and scored 28 goals during his prior tenure.

Who initiated the discussions for Polievka’s return?

Owner Peter Krnáč met with Polievka in Budapest in early 2026 to propose the comeback.

Do you think returning to a former club is the best way for a player to rediscover their scoring form?