Former Juventus striker Mario Mandzukic will be watching this weekends Derby D’Italia with interest: ‘I have a special bond with Juve and I care very much about them.’ The former Croatian international spent four seasons in Turin, winning back to back Serie A titles and making the Champions League final, becoming a fan favourite in the process.
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the 36-year-old explained his bond with the club and what he’s planning next in his career:
Good morning Mario Mandzukic. What are you missing about football and how’s your work going in the Croatian national team?
“When I decided to retire from football in 2021, I was at peace with myself because I achieved all the goals I dreamed of as a child. Being a professional footballer brings a lot of joy and excitement and I know it was a privilege. But football is not just the Sunday game: you have to live a certain life, which involves many trips, hotels, physical efforts, and many sacrifices: from your body to everyday life. I enjoyed my playing career, but I’m also enjoying the new chapter.
I’m not a person who thinks about the past, so I don’t spend time ‘replacing football’. I like working with the Croatian national team. The national coach Zlatko Dalic is an excellent leader and our staff is made up of two other former players – Corluka and Olic – with whom I have played and now we share the responsibility of coaches. The atmosphere in Croatia is always special, like in a family. “.
Do you want to be a coach?
“I can’t say for sure, but I will certainly remain tied to football. For now it’s okay and I think I can make a contribution to the national team. “.
Tomorrow it’s Juventus-Inter: what would he give up to play the Italian derby again?
“(laughs) I know you would like a nice answer… But, as I said, I don’t live in the past. It was nice to participate in such important games and I remember the emotion you feel when you wait or play such a game. As a player, I really liked this challenge and the bigger the game, the bigger my will and ambition to win. I’d like to go watch the game live, but I’m still not sure I can. Otherwise, I will watch it on television: I don’t miss a Juventus game. I spent a beautiful period of my life in Bianconero, I built excellent relationships with the club and especially with the fans. I have a special bond with the people of Juve and I care very much about them”
Juventus fans regret losing you and Carlos Tevez, more than Cristiano Ronaldo – Surprised?
“I don’t know if it’s true, but obviously I’m grateful to everyone who remembers me with affection. I don’t think it depends on Cristiano, who is one of the greatest footballers of all time and who has done great things at Juventus. Rather, I imagine that the Juve fans you refer to appreciated the fight and the spirit that Tevez and I brought to the field. We also played in a very successful Juve period. I am proud to have contributed to the triumphs of society with my game.”
