Ahead of the Slaven Bilić era, the CroatiaSports.com team ranked the 10 current Croatian internationals outside the senior squad who are the most likely, most deserving, or most anticipated to earn a call-up. The criteria were simple: any Croatian player not currently in the squad was eligible, with rankings based on a combination of likelihood, positional need, current form, and long-term potential at each contributor’s discretion. Ante Kvartuč, Markus, Lovre, Matt, and Andrew each submitted their own top-10 lists, which were then combined to produce the official CroatiaSports-recommended “next” call-ups ranking. Before revealing the top 10, here are a few honourable mentions (players who received votes but narrowly missed the cut).
Honourable Mentions:
Darko Nejašmić (27), DM
Moris Valinčić (23), RB
Roko Brajković (21), LW/RW
Patrice Čović (19), AM
Mario Vušković (24), CB
Michele Šego (25), ST/LW
Matija Subotić (18), DM
10. Mislav Oršić (33), LW, Dinamo Zagreb
Votes: Markus (10), Lovre (N/A), Matt (N/A), Ante K (9), Andrew (N/A)
Should Mislav Oršić return to form with Dinamo, the Vatreni could gain a true winger off the bench while the next generation continues to develop. He has already proven himself on the international stage, and if a resurgence occurs, a return to the national team is certainly within reach.
9. Toni Silić (22), GK, Hajduk Split
Votes: Markus (9), Lovre (10), Matt (9), Ante K (N/A), Andrew (N/A)
Toni Silić is the closest goalkeeper prospect to break into Croatia’s squad, should Kotarski have another poor season. However, Livaković and Pandur are very much the solidified #1 and #2 at the moment.
8. Franjo Ivanović (22), ST, Benfica
Votes: Markus (8), Lovre (7), Matt (7), Ante K (8), Andrew (4)
If Franjo Ivanović wants minutes this season, he will have to leave Benfica following the arrival of Jhon Duran. A mediocre season for Benfica saw him dropped from the NT ahead of the 2026 World Cup, but Ivanović is still young and promising.
7. Adriano Jagušić (20), AM/RW, Panathinaikos
Votes: Markus (7), Lovre (8), Matt (6), Ante K (4), Andrew (6)
2025/26 stats:
- 22 matches (22 starts)
- 9 goals, 4 assists – 13 G/A
- 7.52 avg Sofascore rating
Adriano Jagušić had a dominant HNL campaign with Slaven Belupo at just 19 years old last season. Following a surprise move to Panathinaikos, Croatian fans will be looking for the young midfielder to replicate this dominance in the Greek league, before possibly moving up to a stronger league once more. Jagušić might still be a good year or two off the National Team, especially considering the abundance of 10s available to us, but he is definitely one to keep an eye on in the very near future.
6. Domagoj Bradarić (26), LB, Hellas Verona
Votes: Markus (5), Lovre (4), Matt (8), Ante K (3), Andrew (8)
Domagoj Bradarić will unfortunately be playing in Serie B this season following Hellas Verona’s relegation. However, he is likely our second best (or most in-form) left-back after Gvardiol at the moment. He has become more solid defensively over the seasons and offers dynamism in transition.
5. Ivan Smolčić (25), RB, Como
Votes: Markus (6), Lovre (3), Matt (5), Ante K (5), Andrew (7)
Ivan Smolčić fills a positional need for Croatia, at the right-back position behind Josip Stanišić. This call-up could also allow for flexibility in moving Stani to the left-back position should Gvardiol be hurt or move into center-back. Smolčić is not the flashiest player but he was a consistent and reliable starter on a top-4 Serie A team last season.
4. Dion Drena Beljo (24), ST, Dinamo Zagreb
Votes: Markus (4), Lovre (5), Matt (4), Ante K (6), Andrew (1)
2025/26 stats:
- 48 matches (41 starts)
- 38 goals, 6 assists – 44 G/A
- 7/7 penalties
Beljo was one of the most prolific strikers in Europe last season, and his 6’5 frame offers a desirable profile at the 9 for Croatia. The only problem? This was in the Croatian league. Beljo’s campaign in the Bundesliga two seasons ago left much to be desired, and so another dominant season with a move to a top 5 league is what could push him into a starting role for Croatia. He’ll have to fight off Matanović and Musa for the spot (and Budimir should he stick around).
3. Josip Mišić (32), CM/DM, Dinamo Zagreb
Votes: Markus (3), Lovre (2), Matt (2), Ante K (7), Andrew (5)
2025/26 stats:
- 44 matches (44 starts)
- 2 goals, 5 assists – 7 G/A
- 7.40 avg Sofascore rating
With Modrić potentially retiring and Nikola Moro not offering much for the squad, look to Josip Mišić to become Kovačić’s sub off the bench. The 32 year-old midfielder dominated the HNL last season and could be a solid midfield stopgap for Croatia over the next 2 years, until the next Petar Sučić arrives.
2. Luka Stojković (22), AM/RW, Dinamo Zagreb
Votes: Markus (2), Lovre (6), Matt (1), Ante K (1), Andrew (2)
2025/26 stats:
- 42 matches (26 starts)
- 13 goals, 12 assists – 25 G/A
- 34.6 km/h top speed (15.3 sprints/game)
Stojković has flourished into a productive, skilled attacking midfielder for Dinamo Zagreb and may earn himself a move to a bigger league at the end of this season, like Petar Sučić and Martin Baturina did. Although not a true winger, he can slot into the right-wing spot, which helps address a big need in the National Team. Stojković is slower than Segečić and is more comfortable in the 10 role, and thus falls short of the #1 ranking.
1. Adrian Segečić (22), LW/RW, Portsmouth
Votes: Markus (1), Lovre (1), Matt (3), Ante K (2), Andrew (3)
2025/26 stats:
- 39 matches (24 starts)
- 11 goals, 5 assists – 16 G/A
- 36.0 km/h top speed (23.4 sprints/game)
Considering the National Team’s current needs, it is quite obvious why the Australian-Croatian winger sits atop the rankings. The 22-year-old dominated the second tier of English football at the tail end of last season, with a game that relies on explosive speed down the flanks. The youngster can play both wings as well. Should he have a good start to the 2026/27 season with Portsmouth, he will certainly earn himself a call-up sometime soon.
With a new era set to begin under Slaven Bilić, there is no shortage of deserving names waiting for their chance. Let us know who made your list and who you think deserves the next call-up to the Vatreni.
Lu Maskovic at Josko’s new contract signing – not sure why she’s only his GF and don’t see his parents/sisters – but can’t blaim her trying to lock down Josko
Top ten call-up list
1- Stojkovic
2- Valincic
3- Kacavenda
4- Beljo
No one else needs to be called up.
1- No list should have orsic on it.
2- kramaric doesn’t need to retire, just stop calling him @ Markus he isn’t a legend.
Valinčić was great last year before that long injury.
Hopefully this means he’s back at 100%.
He’s got some competition with Smolčić potentially starting at Como.
Dinamo 3 v Thun 2
Lucky escape for Dinamo and they will need to improve big time if they are to make the Champions League.
Misic and Orsic were terrible in the first half. Orsic was subbed shortly after the restart of the second half. Topic and Kacavenda made the difference when they came on.
Do they have Stojković back for the next round?
Yes! It got reduced he’s back.
Great comeback from dinamo, wild game. Think its fair to say those two teams dont like each other much. Very ill-tempered at times.
114 min and Valincic for 3 -2 with wonder shot from outside the box.
We finally have TV reply’s and the TV clock is back.
2 – 2 we have extra time.
Turning point came in the 67 th min when VAR intervened and Thun had a player red carded. Up to then Dinamo were just awful and did not create one clear cut chance. Beljo made it 1 -2 with a header and then Kacavenda scored following a corner.
RTL TV coverage is a disaster, we only have one TV camera in the second half.
They have major technical problems, No reply’s no TV clock on the screen. Not sure who is providing the coverage i.e. TV cameras but the TV commentator is saying that it is not RTL’S fault.
Dinamo have NEVER been eliminated in 3rd qualifying round CL – nevermind 2nd round
If Kovacevic can’t turn it around in the 2nd half he needs to be FIRED on the spot/today by Boban
If only they had Jaga….
This is pretty bad.
Dinamo had a very manageable path to Champions League when you look at the teams they have in the next two qualifying rounds.
Boban should’ve offered more than an measly 1.8 million for Jagusic last year, and he should have closed out the deal for Livakovic (at 2.5 million) when he had the chance (before Liva’s value went up after the World Cup).
Beljo also needs to prove himself more. Boban really chased him hard when he first brought him over and broke Dinamo’s transfer record.
Beljo can score tons of goals in the HNL, but nothing against European clubs? Come on.
If Dinamo lose, Kovacevic should not be off the hook…but Boban built this team and should also accept some blame.
Let’s see what happens in the second half.
Trying to watch dinamo on a stream. Can’t get a decent stream. Watched a few minutes. Saw Misic give the ball away with terrible first touch and Thun scored from the chance. He does that every game at least once. Thats why I don’t think he will ever be good enough for the NT. the only reason a player like misic is key for a team is that he doesn’t make mistakes and does all the basics very well. Because he is a very unspectacular player. But then he actually gives the ball away in very dangerous situations. No chance he gets a call up
@Crnkovic
Are you familiar with Zambia International Kings Kangwa ?
PAO just signed him for 4M to play as the left-sided inside forward/#10 (i.e. partnership with Jaga but left-side with his right foot)
Maybe someone knows him as he’s ex-Red Star
Watching the highlights (appreciate those are the best bits – I’m sure he has issues somewhere) – this is GREAT for Jaga to get to train with him – look at his ball striking (when he just wacks the ball) and variety of shots
Also has a good motor on him – this will definitely PUSH Jaga in training and Jaga will learn a LOT from him I suspect (Jaga does need to dIversify his shots and would LOVE for him to learn how to wack the ball like Kangwa)
***.youtube.com/watch?v=XrrteiqmSKM
@anonymous, yes I know him well. Very good player. Zambias most creative player. Lacks pace and has struggled for consistency otherwise he would be a well known player by now. Even more reason for me to watch panathinaikos. Would make me happy if he links well with Jaga.
other than his reputation, I know very little about Jaga but I do know his potential is supposed to be very high. I have been reading about his last season and some of the issues affecting his play and with some kids/players, its normal for them to struggle with life the first time they’re away from home and their natural surroundings.
I hope for the sake of our National Team he begins to be able to show his worth and value this season. confidence and maturing is a big deal…not all kids are wired the same. some leave home and are mentally stronger but not as talented as the next guy while a guy like Jaga who might be full of talent and has tons of potential may need a little more time.
eventually I believe his competitive nature will kick in and he will become himself again, then if all goes well he will outgrow the Greek league and continue with his career while looking back at the hard period he went through in his rear view mirror.
Šotiček transferring on loan to Hajduk from Basel.
Sneaky good move for him.
Taking advantage of the Roko Brajković situation and possibly fast tracks himself onto the National Team if he does well.
He made the wrong decision a few years back turning down the offer to join Dinamo. I think his father was not happy with the money offered. He did not play regular first team football at Basel, and it cost him in his development.
Good to see him join Hajduk if it eventuates? and hopefully he does well.
smoke in mirrors!
Šotiček could have had a much better future and opportunity at Dinamo if he and his dad weren’t egotistical. remember, Boban cleaned house and wanted young Croatian players in rotation but Šotiček felt he was better than he is. he then went to Basel and had 4 good games all season.
now all of a sudden he’s going to pretend Hajduk respect him more than Dinamo would have while Hajduk are still in limbo with regards to the organizations finances and leadership and stability but if he would have gone to Dinamo he would have had 1 year under his belt playing against better competition and being part of a very respected club.
Well, Garcia seems to have a good handle on Hajduk right now, so the leadership and stability might be there.
They beat Zilina (who have played in Europa and CL before) and they just beat Pafos (who were in CL last season).
This kind of success is unheard of for Hajduk, and Garcia is doing it without Livaja too. He’s playing the youth and winning games despite the fans booing him and wanting Livaja in there.
So, if Šotiček is a “Garcia hire” then it’s a very good sign.
Not sure if this is the case and whether or not Garcia actually rates him or not…but Garcia seems to be doing very well right now, and we’ll know after this season if Šotiček will ever have anything to offer us at NT level.
yes I totally agree about Garcia, good points made.
2. Luka Stojković (22), AM/RW, Dinamo Zagreb
Votes: Markus (2), Lovre (6), Matt (1), Ante K (1), Andrew (2)
what do those numbers in brackets mean?
The 22 is Stojković’s age and the numbers next to the voters names are where they fall in the ranking for likely/desired callup.
Example:
Markus thinks Stojković is #2 in the callup rank, while Lovre puts him at #6.
ok thanks.
I’ve watched Stojkovic play for the past 2 seasons and he’s the type of player that imposes himself and makes things happen. some may disagree with me but I feel like him and Fruk are both the same “mentality” and if the game is played through them, the more they’re involved, the better they play. they both find ways to create and score.
I’m going Orsic. Underdog. Badly managed by Dalic. I say Bilic surprises us with Orsic being a guy in a backup role. Saw him live a few times and he stands out. Doesn’t need alot of chances and has a nose for the net.
Yes
@A Tin U
https://croatiansports.com/top-10-next-croatia-call-ups/#comments/530907
Your above comment really cracked me up🤣 But I’ll tell you what’s causing me to weep, wail and gnash my teeth now… the news of Brajkovic’s ACL. This really hurts because as you know, our NT badly needs a young, talented winger and Croatian football just rarely produces any true winger. I was hoping he would soon be knocking on Bilic’s door then BOOM this had to happen. This means he is effectively out for an entire season, zero chance he goes to a stronger league anytime soon and unless he comes back strongly next season, jebiga I don’t know about his chances of making the roster for EURO 2028.
Re Hrgovic/NT left back situation, I was looking at his stats the other day. Seems like he has been a starter for Hajduk for 2 full seasons already (fyi in season 2024-2025, he was mostly playing as a right back). We can only hope he takes a big step forward this season🙏
***
@Anonymous
Ha ha, thanks for the report on Jaga vs Paksi first leg👍 Fully agree with you that for the breakaway at 3:50, Jaga did the right thing not to pass to Tetteh… grr it sucks to see Tetteh remonstrate with him about that and then poor Jaga just swallowing it like it’s his fault.
Here’s a question for you GOAT. Which player(s) does Jagusic resemble or remind you of?
@Bartolec1912
Tough to see. Brajkovic had excellent acceleration and good speed, potential was there to contribute to the NT . . . A player works so hard and then gets dealt such a bad card. Such is life sometimes. Hoping he has an orderly and full recovery.
It seems Soticek is now on his way to Hajduk. Another speedy youngster who can play left or right wing where, as you say, we desperately need help on the NT. By all accounts he has a high ceiling. We’ll see how he does . . . and watch how the season unfolds.
Well, Fran Topić just had an impressive match for Dinamo. There’s another young winger right there.
Re: Knee
Croatian doctors for the love of God and football start prescribing Vitamin D3 and vitamin k2 at birth.
Enough of being bullied
Poor Majer
Not on Ante’s list of top 20
Nobody mentions him
Sad
I hope Bilic recognizes his talent and calls him up. I also hope that not being called for the WC doesn’t adversely affect his attitude.
Luka Vuskovic landed safely in Austria with Brighton for pre-season camp
Brighton social media barely featuring him which is weird given he’s their HIGHEST signing ever
But he’s alive (looked a bit sleepy coming off the plane)
3 friendlies coming up – first is behind closed doors (Strassbourg) – then Roma then Bologna
…and just like that, we lose another top talent to knee injuries.
“Hajduk winger Roko Brajković could be out for up to SIX months as doctors have raised fears of an ACL injury.
The 21-year-old is set for a detailed scan tomorrow, which will confirm whether the ligament is torn or if the issue is less severe.”
Unbelievable, he has been in great form this season and Hajduk is short of players on the wing. Chances of eliminating Pafos have suddenly taken a nosedive.
If its ACL he will be out for a season?
Frigan, James Maddison and Crnac had ACL last August/September and all just coming back now
It can be a whole year
Sad
I don’t understand how the clubs can’t have specific training/exercises to better protect the knees – nothing is full proof – but it’s happening too often (Barisic too in April, Matkovic other knee, etc)
Terrible. Just as Frigan and Crnac are struggling to get back to form . . . . Hope it’s not as bad as feared.
@TinU @Bartolec
Jaga Peksi Leg 1 eye test !!!!
His position ?
OMG OMG OMG
Anonymous has NEVER seen a player play the position he played EVER
He wasn’t a box-to-box midfielder
He was a BYLINE-to-BYLINE AND TOUCHLINE-to-TOUCHLINE midfielder
It must be the FIRST TIME IN HISTORY a player has played this position
It was unreal – check out his heat map – Jaga was everywhere !!!!!!!
***.sofascore.com/football/match/paksi-fc-panathinaikos-fc/Yobsjwc#id:16351134
Wow wow wow
Again, Anonymous has NEVER seen anything like it
Basically – his main position was as a central #8/#10
But he had freedom to ROAM
Jaga was here – Jaga was there – Jaga was EVERYWHERE !!!
Anonymous saw him track back on at least 2 occasions and help the right FB by chasing the runner who got past the FB and stole the ball from him at the byline
It was incredible
Next play – Anonymous sees Jaga on the left touchline picking up a pass
It is CRAZY CRAZY CRAZY stuff
That’s why after 80 – Jaga had to come off – poor Jaga – it’s too much running for any player – so much energy expended getting around the pitch – in fact in the 5 minutes before he came off Jaga slipped twice and fell another time – Jaga literally drove himself into the ground for the team until he couldn’t anymore
Offensively – Jaga is the main outlet to get pass their press – Jaga often started of the right and they would pass to him – sometimes he was centrally dropping deep – sometimes he was on the left touchline – Anonymous couldn’t follow Jaga around he was moving too much (it doesn’t help Jaga only wears #8, it would be easier to track him with #88 on his jersey, argh) [as an aside Jaga should NOT have to drop so far deep to pick up all these passes – PAO needs someone in the back 4 and/or the #6(s) to CARRY the ball up the field – so Jaga gets the ball in a better position]
But Jaga was the focal point – ball into Jaga – who moves it to the next player
I saw some magic from Jaga too – he copied the “Bati Neymar flick” we saw vs. Panama but he did the same move on his own box to clear the ball (he didn’t execute it as well as Bati did but it was close) – what CONFIDENCE to even try that at the edge of your own box – crazy crazy stuff
Jaga took only 1 or 2 corners – BUT – and Anonymous has NEVER SEEN JAGA DO THIS EVER – Jaga was tasked with being in the box in the corners (!!!!!!!!) – on the offensive corners he was distracting the keeper and then a few steps back to try to head a cross – another offensive corner he peeled back from the chaos to edge of the box ready to receive and shoot (the ball never got to him)
But u want to know what’s even MORE impressive ????
DEFENSIVE CORNERS
WOW WOW WOW
JAGA WAS DEFENDING CORNERS – AND TAKING OUT TWO PLAYERS AT A TIME !!!!!!!!!!!
DO U UNDERSTAND ?????
CROATIA NT PLAYERS COULDN’T DEFEND EVEN ONE CORNER THE WHOLE WORLD CUP – AND JAGA IS ABLE TO DEFEND TWO PLAYERS AT THE SAME TIME ON THE SAME DEFENSIVE CORNER – THIS IS CRAZY – THIS IS WORLD CLASS DEFENDING BETTER THAN EVERY SINGLE CROATIA NT PLAYER COMBINED DEFENSIVE HEADING ABILITY !!!!!
Here’s the tape:
***.youtube.com/watch?v=8KgSCFBbFZ8
see 0:11 video – that’s Jaga defending TWO players – OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG (!!!!) – look how smart he is defending – using his BODY and HIS ANONYMOUS-LIKE MONSTER ARMS to push the first guy back (Peksi player fell over LMAO) and then use his ANONYMOUS-LIKE MONSTER ARMS to knock the second player coming in to head the ball – that’s not even his responsibility/man to cover but JAGA is super responsible – more responsible than the entire Croatia WC squad !!!!!
see 0:22 – Jaga gets the ball – FEEDBACK JAGA WRITE THIS DOWN – u took too many touches to get the ball onto ur left foot cutting inside before shooting – the right time to shoot was exactly at 7:07 after u EMBARRASSED the first player, that’s when u should have fired off the shot quickly – too many touches, defenders had time to adjust/cut off ur angles
see 0:29 – that’s one of the Jaga tracking back to cut off the winger – in this case forcing him to cross early – if Jaga isn’t there the guy has a free run into the box and it’s probably a goal !
see 0:49 – Jaga should have had a hockey assist – dumb teammate couldn’t finish in front of the net – MORON
see 1:15 selfish striker Tetteh (basically a homeless-man’s Osimhen) should have passed to Jaga crashing the box
see 1:43 – look at Jaga – unselfishly points to where he wants to the winger to pass to – which was the right play – instead of selfish demanding the ball – Jaga is a team-player !
see 1:53 – Jaga’s presence and AURA made the CB nervous and he rushed and kicked the ball into the net – if Jaga isn’t CRASHING the box – the CB would think they have more time and the goal never happens – Jaga’s Aura gets an assist
see 2:57 – Jaga is drawing three defenders and cheating his way as they know Tetteh wants to pass to Jaga (everyone wants to pass to Jaga!) – as they all cheat/lean this way – opens the space for Andino running in unmarked for the 2nd goal – again Jaga’s AURA does all the work
See 3:40 Jaga heading flick back to his teammate in the box – this is the skill and vision required for a NT player – Jaga has it
See 3:50 – Jaga in on an almost break-away picking up the thru ball to him (see how he BREEZES past the defender – those Anonymous-like Monster arms keep coming in handy don’t they?) – now Jaga has got a lot of flak that he didn’t pass it to Tetteh to make it 3-0 – but Anonymous has watched the play multiple-times from all available angles (not all angles in this short video) and Anonymous DISAGREES – Tetteh (once again a homeless-man’s Osihmen) is a MORON he mimics Jaga’s running direction/angle and is too close to Jaga – he should have ran 5 yards further left i.e. a diagonal run away from Jaga trajectory – so there was more space b/w Jaga and him – additionally, on the behind the net cam – u see that the keeper was CHEATING and guessing and ready for a pass to Tetteh and ready to act – Jaga picked this up and went for the lob – it was the RIGHT play Jaga trying to shoot as if he passed Anonymous is 95% sure the keeper would have intercepted it (again bc Tetteh is a MORON and didn’t give Jaga a proper outlet to pass) – and for all the work he did for the team he deserved a goal (the Tetteh guy missed a million of chances already) – Anonymous doesn’t like at 03:58 Jaga’s body language as Tetteh is complaining to him that he didn’t pass – Jaga needs to be MORE ASSERTIVE here and tell him he’s a MORON who should have run diagonally and given Jaga an outlet to pass, but he didn’t and FORCED Jaga to try a magic shot – Jaga doesn’t take any sh*t u got Anonymous-like Monster Arms have more confidence in yourself and tell Tetteh to F off next time !!!!
So… Jaga played well?
Lol
….Kind of? 😂
Can’t wait for 2nd leg!
Lol, much better synopsis!
I was admittedly worried . . . Until this widely anticipated (but mysteriously delayed) eye test report came through.
Let’s review where we were at in the sixty (60) agonizing hours after the game, before the eye test finally came available.
Sofascore, which produced its assessment within seconds of the final whistle, had Jaga as the second worst starter for PAO.
FOTMOB, not far behind with publishing its results, had him tied for third worst.
You can imagine the agony in the diaspora, the wailing and gnashing of teeth! (It hasn’t been this bad since we learned from a referee, via VAR, via a blip, via a chip, that we were knocked out of World Cup by a single strand of hair on Matanovic’s head.)
But knowing that Sofascore and FOTMOB don’t look deeply into the chess board, can’t discern the finer points, and often miss the nuances and subtleties picked up by the (99.9% accurate) eye test, many of us waited. There was no “Rush to Judgment”.
The eye test report did not disappoint. Jaga is on track (to say the least!).
Based on Maminjo’s comments and the 99.9% eye test, I draw the following conclusions.
1. The Super League Greece is, so far as I can determine, not higher ranked than the Czech First League or the Polish Ekstraklasa.
2. Bilic does not rate the league highly. (Maminjo).
3. For Jagusic to get an invite to the national team, he is going to have to have a standout start with PAO and be one of the top players in the league as the season moves along, if not be a top player in the league through an entire season, before a call up is likely (Maminjo).
4. He has the ability to do that, and he is going to do precisely that. He will star for PAO this year in Greece (Anonymous).
Let’s see what happens.
Polish and Czech leagues have 45m total wage bills (with 18 and 16 teams in 1st division)
Greek league has 170m total wage bill (with 14 teams)
Wage bill (adjusted for # of teams ie per team basis) is a good proxy for quality of league (excluding Saudi) as players go where they can earn the most $$$
Maminjo was talking more (I think) about specific players ie Krivak and Durdov having to dominate there to get NT attention (bc they weren’t on the radar of the NT prior to their moves in the HNL)
But Jaga is #1 name on U21 level and was NT standby list in November (hope Bilic gets rid of the moronic standby list) so he’s high-profile already
This is why Anonymous is the GOAT !!!!!!!!
*#1 name on U21 team
Anonymous ❤️ Jaga
FWIW,
I looked at the wage issue.
I share your analysis that total salaries tell us a lot about the leagues. In fact, I would be prepared to accept your approach to measure the relative standing of the leagues, rather than any number of other data points combined. Markets are relatively efficient.
I could not square the circle that the Greek league has such a higher total player wage than the Czech league or the Polish league, yet site after site seems to put them at roughly the same level, and more often than not, the Czech league is rated higher and the Polish league is rated at a similar level as the Greek.
It makes no sense.
The Greek league has 3-4 times the overall salary.
Digging deeper . . .
It looks like the Greek league is absolutely dominated by the top teams, perhaps just the top four teams, which include Jaga’s team.
It looks like it might be that the top four teams are in or around 125-130 million combined of that total salary. It doesn’t totally explain it, but it looks like this is a league that’s very top-heavy, and there may be a lot of weak teams on the lower end of the table.
That MIGHT explain the overall lower ranking of the “league”, even though it appears to be stronger when looking at total salary alone.
It also suggests that if we really want to measure Jagusic’s progress, we should measure how he plays against the other top teams in the league. If he’s feasting on a number of weak teams at the lower end of the table, it perhaps doesn’t tell us quite as much.
FWIW
The new calls will be based on who is dropped – so we need to work backward – ie how many players is Bilic dropping – that’s the number of new names that will get called
We don’t know that number so hard to tell
Would guess at least 1 or 2 of the 6 CBs gets cut and replaced with FBs
The rest who knows eg should Moro or Jakic be cut to call the older Misic ? Not sure
For Jaga and Sege I think it comes down to Luka Sucic – If Bilic wants to drop him – than he needs Jaga or Sege to replace him
So POV on Jaga depends on Luka Sucic and other current players is it’s a relative not an absolute discussion
Also FWIW
Fotmob and Sofascore actually start each game with every player being a 6 or 7 (don’t remember which) – as the game progresses they update each player’s rating in real time – so it’s evolving over the 90’ – there is no delay in them publishing something after the game
They are fine – but it’s just a simple algorithm increasing / decreasing based on each parameter – pass worth x, dribble worth y, defensive header worth z, etc – very mechanical and completely misses any and all intangibles (eg body language, fighting spirit, shithosery, etc)
Does Croatia need another CB ?
Luka Vicelich playing vs. Tttenham right now
18 y/o – grand father is Croatian
On his IG – he has BOTH NZ and HRV flags
Another CB to monitor lol
His father is Ivan Vicelić and is New Zealand’s most capped ever player (he played for New Zeland in one of the World Cups).
When it comes to National Teams, we’re literally everywhere
Frigan more minutes under his belt today
Crnac now back on grass
Who knows how far either is away from playing in competitive match
But progress / right direction
It’s a bigger question of who to drop
6 of maminjos players are midfield to forwards
I’ve mentioned many times that to coaches these aren’t just pieces on a chess board but relationships for a coach. Dalic couldn’t just drop moro who had been with them for so long
Bilic doesn’t have that so he has a lot more room to operate. But who is the just to drop from midfield to forward to get 6 spots?
Easy
Moro
Fruk
Jakic
Then you start going from fat to muscle and bone
Budimir
L sucic
Mario pasalic
Marko pasalic
Vlasic
Modric
If not performing at club
Musa
Matanovic
I would think that none of Ćaleta-Car, Erlić, Pongračić, Kramarić, Budimir, Fruk, Jakić, Moro are safe…and there is also Modrić (who will be retiring in early October).
Šutalo, Vlašić, L.Sučić and maybe even Mario Pašalić might even find themselves without a callup here and there (but I think that an all-out purge would be very risky).
You could easily add six new players, especially if you’re not bound by the unnecessary “CB callup” law that Dalić was.
Agreed. The reason there are not as many 10s high on this list (ex., Stojković being a 6 for Lovre, Jagusic lower, etc) is because of this. There are certainly droppable players: Fruk, Moro, Erlić, maybe Jakić. But even if Bilić doesn’t have much of a relationship with these guys compared to Dalić, a purge is unrealistic. Mario P and Kramarić are not getting dropped. As much as people would like to make room for youngsters, they will need to prove a lot to dethrone these guys. I agree that Krama is at the tail end of his career and him retiring after the 2026 WC probably would’ve been the right call not only for himself but for the re-tooling of this NT. But, as long as he wants to stay (and isnt utter shit), he will. People underrate how close to legend status he is (right behind your Perisic’s, and probably above Mandzo in the eyes of your Dalic’s, etc). Anyways, all this to say we are jam-packed with 10s and “false” wingers like Baturina, L. Sucic, Mario P, Kramaric, Vlasic, Fruk and making the squad will be tough. Even DCC and Pongracic would be tough to drop, although I dont rate them much. Pongracic started 3/4 WC games and wasnt that bad. Hopefully Bilic has the balls to shake things up a bit but I wouldnt be surprised if only Moro and Fruk are dropped.
Only positive comments re Pavic today (correction he came on at HT) saying he stood out
Why doesn’t Bayern loan him to Hamburg for the year? Good replacement for Luka loan and he’ll have Mario fellow Croat there for support
Some might not want to admit this, but I will admit it . . . an ingenious idea.
This loan would be a win, win, win, win, win. For Mario, for Pavic, for Hamburg, for Bayern, and for the NT looking out a few years.
Can’t see any downside . . .
Downside would be Hamburg benching Filip Pavic, to play Mario Vuskovic.
Hahahahahahahahahahaha..
Jeez
Maminjo gives Anonymous no credit
HSV has no RB (nevermind backup) – no back-up LB
And the 3-4 CBs they have are mid at best
It’s possible Pavic and Mario play together at HSV – it’s not either/or – and Pavic doesn’t need to play every single game
https://x.com/weltmeister1887/status/2080648354954981462?s=46
It’s better if he plays 20-25 games at HSV va 5-10 at Bayern (that’s if he even plays that much)
I’m all for HSV becoming a feeder team for the Croatian national team.
Durdov on the bench today for his team’s game in Poland. Has not seen the field so far, now at the 70th minute.
Yea this probably wasn’t a good move for him.
Might become another Stipe Biuk.
Anyone watch Istra Lecce friendly
LW Skafar-Zuzic (the guy who scored 2 great goals for U17) and CB Kumar got 90′ – while Saranic got 78′
Game ended 2-2
Three Croatian CBs (Roko and Raphael starting) with Bayern today (with Filip on the bench) – Michael is a midfielders
Pavlic came off after 26′ replaced by Pavic (lol – so confusing)
#####
Croatian Football Scout 2 🇭🇷
@crotalentscout2
Four Croats are in Bayern Munich’s squad for their first preseason match of the season against 3rd division side SV Wehen Wiesbaden, with three named in the starting XI.
🇭🇷 Roko Mijatović (18)
🇩🇪🇭🇷 Raphael Pavlić (18)
🇦🇹🇭🇷 Michael Matošević (18)
🇭🇷 Filip Pavić (16) is on the bench.
#####
Has this always been the casel?
I have been a casual fan since the great run in 1998 but only followed closely since about 2018.
Does Croatia normally have this many young prospects as you look across Europe, including this many in the system at top organizations like Bayern in the Bundesliga?
No. I dint think we’ve ever had anything close to this many.
Pretty surprised Segečić is at #1.
Right now, I think he may be another Marco Pasalic (which is decent), but the #1 most likely callup? (not sure about that). I think he should maaaybe be in the top 5, but not number 1.
Smolčić will for sure be called up, along with Stojković, Mišić and probably Beljo. Those are probably the top four sure-fire callups right now.
Jagušić and Ivanović will 100% get called up if they secure first team football with their club teams.
So, I think Segečić makes the top-10 but I would put him behind these guys.
Bradarić at #6? I doubt it. I don’t think he gets a callup at all.
Toni Silić will probably get called up, even though he’s not that good.
Oršić probably doesn’t get a call up anytime soon, maybe if he plays lights-out amazing in the HNL…but I think Bilić would still pick Michele Šego or Roko Brajković over him (if it’s close).
Several guys from the “honorable mentions” list will definitely be called up by Bilić ahead of guys like Oršić and Bradarić.
The players on this list are very good players and I want to see them called up.
I remember in 2006 when Bilić first started, he called up a handful of new guys (Corluka, Čale, Sablić, Petrić, etc.) to try them out, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he did it again.
Maminjo, you should give us your top ten list.
I was wondering about Krivak, whether he might have squeezed into receiving at least an honourable mention. I know he had that injury, but he seems to have made a good recovery.
I suspect we may be hearing more from Mlacic soon if he has a good year in Serie A.
I will also look forward to seeing what kind of year Durdov might have in Poland, and wonder if we might be talking about him this time next year. (Some of his games will be available in Canada on DAZN, as they are making at least some Polish league games available). He has fallen off the radar somewhat, but let’s see how he does with this change of scenery.
My top ten that I think are the “likeliest” ones that Bilić will call up (based on what he’s hinted at, and based on their form, etc.)…
– Mišić, Smolčić, Stojković (for sure)
– Silić (for sure, just because we need a third string keeper)
– Beljo (very likely)
– Jagušić (likely, but only if he continues to start at PAO)
– Ivanović (likely, but only if he gets a new club soon & starts right away)
– Segečić (likely)
These are my top 8 in roughly this order. I think Mišić, Smolčić, Stojković, and Silić are guaranteed…Beljo almost a guarantee…and Jagušić/Ivanović/Segečić are all very likely (but one or two not make the squad right away).
I don’t see Bradarić or Oršić making the cut. I think Bilić would rather pick a surprise player as a new callup.
I have no idea who that would be, but I would lean toward one of Šego or Brajković (since we’re thin at LW, and they’re both looking pretty decent). I also wouldn’t be surprised if Nejašmić was called up (since it looks like we’re trialing CDMs).
Bilić probably doesn’t call up Valinčić yet (since he will call up Smolčić) and he won’t call up Mario Vušković yet (since he’s suspended until November).
My personal opinion…
I would love to call up any of these guys mentioned above.
My focus would be less on the actual callup…and moreso on trying out new formations with guys like Stojković, Jagušić or Ivanović integrated into the offense (alongside Baturina). Maybe try and copy some of the offensively-potent formations that Como plays with Baturina and Nico Paz.
I would also like to try out different backline formations with Smolčić at RB (shifting Stanišić to LB at times) allowing Gvardiol and Vušković to be paired. Get Valinčić in there eventually (for some healthy competition between him and Smolčić). I would not bother calling up Bradarić.
I am intrigued by young players like Brajković, Pavić, Levak, Čović and Mlačić…but I wouldn’t call them up unless they are regularly starting for their clubs (since all I am going by are highlights). Brajković seems to be closest right now.
The potential new CDM callups like Mišić and Nejašmić are less exciting (since we’ll always have Petar Sučić ahead of them). I like Mišić as a backup and don’t know much about Nejašmić…but I am intrigued by Levak and some of our young CBs (Pavić, Mlačić) but these callups can wait.
Mario Vušković intrigues me a lot. Curious to see what four years of training and anger can do for a player (who hasn’t played a single minute of competitive football).
Outside of the above, I can’t really think of anyone else off-hand that would be close to a callup.
I think that list is about right in terms of “likeliest”.
I was suprised Smolcic did not get the call up for World Cup. He is due for a call up.
If Bilic calls up Misic, to come off the bench and play during upcoming Nations League, I get that. Misic has been a good player in the HNL. But I can’t see Misic being an answer by the time Euro 2028 or WC 2030 rolls around, and I think Bilic has to try to build toward success at those two tournaments. As you say, trying new formations, seeing what works is important, but with an eye to future success. Misic is older than Kova . . .
Branimir Mlacic’s stock went up last year. He played well in Serie A when he played. His transfermarket value is moving higher. Bilic might have a number of quality center backs to choose from looking out a couple of years from now.
I guess we will get a sense of where Mario Vuskovic is at in a few months when he starts playing at Hamburg. Hopefully Ivanovic goes to Como.
It would actually help us immensely if Gvardiol somehow played well at LB.
We seem to have an ARMY of talented young CBs in the waiting, and almost nothing at LB.
Ideally, Gvardiol would become elite at LB (as he was at CB for us) and we could focus on finding a good combination from our pool of young CBs in the Luka Vuskovic, Mario Vuskovic, Mlacic, Pavic, etc.
…and finally rid ourselves of the Duje, Pongracic, Sutalo, Erlic pool.
Also, regarding your comments about Krivak and Durdov…
I don’t think Croats (Bilić included) respect the Polish and Czech leagues that much.
Both Krivak and Durdov would have to become TOP players in the league to get a callup.
I think playing in these leagues will hurt their chances
I’ll agree with that. Given where they are, they probably have to really have stand out seasons, AND then maybe move to a top 8 league in order to make the jump to the NT.
I am hopeful for both of them to have good 2026-27 seasons.
Remember, it’s not only who’s most likely, it’s also who we want to see (personally) and positional need. I think Segecic fits those three categories the best considering he is a likely callup if he maintains form, we all like his profile and he’s a true winger. Stojkovic is not really a winger, he really does perform better at the 10. I think that’s why he fell slightly below. Segecic is the only truly pacey winger we have that’s close to NT level so we all prioritized that.
Sege isn’t a “true [touchline] winger” like Marco Pasalic though
He’s an right-sided hybrid inside forward/#10
It’s completely different position and role in the team (when you have inside forwards the FBs have to provide width, etc)
Compare Marco Pasalic heat map Panama [glued to touchline] vs. Segecic heat map Portsmouth [start right drift centrally] – it’s completely different
Inside forwards on right-side include: Luka Sucic, Jagusic, Stojkovic, Segecic, etc – with Stojko being the only right-foote
Interesting.
If we have Stanisic and (not to upset Maminjo but . . . ) Gvardiol providing that width up the right and left sides from the back line, then does Segecic fit well?
The Oršic support has to stop guys. If he’s a potential answer to any problems we have, we’re in much deeper trouble than anyone realizes.
I was a big Oršic fan and I credit him for keeping us alive (and saving Dalic’s job) at Euro 2020. He was also a key super sub for us at WC2022…
But his time has passed.
We have Baturina, who can cover that left side and it seems like Sego, Segecic and Brajkovic are set to have great seasons.
One of them will break through into the National Team.
Respect for Orsic for all he has done. But I have to agree with Becar.
Respect for Misic as well, I like how he plays. But with Baturina, Petar Sucic, Kovacic, Majer, Luka Sucic, and Jakic all in top five leagues, and all six of them younger than Misic, and Jagusic looking closer to getting a call up as a seventh potential midfielder, I just don’t know that a 32-year-old Misic makes a whole lot of sense at this point.
Start a 38 y/o Perisic and sub a 33 y/o Orsic isn’t the right way to go ?
@Bartolec1912
We have a partial answer on Hrgovic.
Our experts, who do pick other Hajduk players, do not put Hrgovic in the top 17, so while he may have potential (and does play at left back) he is not thought to be ready for prime time . . . at least not yet.
Hrgović is probably a better callup than Bradarić right now.
Can Olic call Edin Biber up to the U21s ?
Played 3x for Croatia U17 – moved to Germany U17
Will be with Gladbach first team this year
Other key call-up is LW Adeyole Thomas of RB Liepzig [i’m sure all u MORONS have been watching him pre-season light it up]
Not sure which is worse
Jaga not being #1
Or
Completely ignoring Saranic
Unreal stuff
Well, take it easy Anon. . . in fairness, they did not receive the Jaga eye test report on time.
Surely THEY can’t be blamed for the delay.
Now, I’m not pointing fingers at anyone, but . . .
If I’m Bilic
I’m all over Niko Iličević …
He’s exactly the type of winger Croatia 🇭🇷 need
MB, just looked up this player. Never heard of him before.
Some suggestion that he is basically ready to play in the Bundesliga right now. But he is born in October 2010, and is only 15. He is with Frankfurt.
1. All the reports indicate that he’s an attacking midfielder. Has he played on the wing or do you envision him as a potential winger?
2. He’s a German citizen and he’s been playing for Germany’s U16 and U17. He also has Croatian citizenship. What’s the likelihood of him playing for Croatia? Do you think he will elect to play for Croatia like Stanisic and Pavic?
He is obviously at least a number of years off from the national team. Can anyone else offer any insights into this player’s potential or his likelihood to play for Croatia?
Hey A Tin U ,
I wouldn’t get too caught up in whether he’s a No. 10 or a winger right now. he’s good enough, coaches will figure out where he fits best. I believe he’s got qualities for playmaking winger. That’s the easy part.
What interests me a lot more is the Croatia side of things. Germany has him in the youth setup now, but that’s exactly why HNS needs to be proactive. Build the relationship early, stay in touch with him and his family, make him feel like he’s genuinely part of Croatia’s plans. We’ve won a few of these dual-national battles over the years, but we’ve lost some too—and those are the ones you always look back on.
If this kid is as highly rated as people are saying, I’d much rather HNS be talking to him today than trying to convince him three or four years from now, when Germany is already offering him bigger roles. Waiting is a gamble Croatia can’t really afford.
The family connection makes it even more interesting. His uncle, Ivo, wore the Croatian shirt, so there is already a bond there and an understanding of what representing Croatia means. That doesn’t guarantee anything, but it’s a relationship HNS should be nurturing instead of assuming it’ll take care of itself.
If I’m Bilic I’m all over him, like Rakitic previously.
Thanks MB. Great scouting report on this kid. I had not heard of him. Looks like a heck of a prospect for the NT.
Hopefully the HNS is doing what you suggest, and will have success convincing him to represent Croatia.
Well, the HNS did a great job snagging Filip Pavić (and he was playing for Germany’s youth teams).
I’m sure Pletikosa is working on Iličević as we speak.