“Our generation felt unrepeatable – it achieved incredible results, but there are young players like him who could reach even higher heights.”
These were the words of AC Milan’s Luka Modric when addressing his Croatian heir apparent and Inter Milan’s new midfield sensation Petar Sucic.
Sucic’s transfer from Dinamo Zagreb to San Siro this summer – a pre-agreement was struck with the Croatian club at the start of the year for around €14 million – didn’t create much hype.
Inter were focused on finding a successor for former manager Simone Inzaghi, while the dispute involving Hakan Calhanoglu, Lautaro Martinez and president Beppe Marotta dominated the headlines.
However, Inter have realised they have unearthed a midfield gem, following Susic’s palpable impact in the first few games.
The Italian giants got the first glimpse of Sucic’s world-class potential when he delivered an assist in a sparkling cameo during the win against River Plate in the Club World Cup.
The 21-year-old has made a great start to the new Serie A season, producing an incredible performance in the 5-0 win against Torino, which included a great assist to Marcus Thuram.
Sucic also showed his ability to influence the different phases of the game. From his precise passing skills and shooting abilities to his impressive defensive solidity, the Croatian is an exciting prodigy.
Calhanoglu and Henrikh Mkhitaryan could be playing their final season at Inter due to the uncertainty over their futures.
However, Susic is a readymade solution in Sucic. He has all the tools to spearhead the midfield for the foreseeable future.
Sucic is undoubtedly the next real deal from Croatia’s never-ending talent pipeline and can mark an era with the national team.
With Modric, Marcelo Brozovic and Mateo Kovacic at the ebb of their careers, Sucic and Martin Baturina are ready to take up the midfield mantle.
Sucic, who has already earned 10 caps, was outstanding during the 4-0 win against Montenegro in a World Cup qualifier last night. Modric was impressed with his performance.
“He’s a very strong player and a great guy,” Modric said. “We’ve already played together before, and he’s shown his qualities.
“It’s no coincidence that he’s signed for a top club like Inter. You will undoubtedly get to know him a bit better and see his talent.
“He can still improve, I enjoy playing with him and I hope that he always continues to improve, even if we will face each other in the derby soon, we will see how he treats me.
“Let’s hope he respects me and doesn’t go too quickly. But for the moment, I’m enjoying playing with him.”
Sucic could partner Modric in the FIFA World Cup next year if he continues his fine form.
