Petar Sucic, the prediction from the coach who launched him: “After Inter, he’ll join Real Madrid”

Inter Milan are already reaping the rewards of one of their summer signings: young Croatian midfielder Petar Šučić. The 21-year-old arrived quietly from Dinamo Zagreb but has quickly shown he belongs at the highest level - capped off with a superb goal against ACF Fiorentina that underlined both his technique and composure.

Speaking exclusively to TuttoMercatoWeb.com, Sergej Jakirović - now head coach of Hull City in the English Championship - shared his thoughts on the player he first promoted to senior football at HŠK Zrinjski Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina when Šučić was just 18. Jakirović, who also managed Dinamo Zagreb in the past, was among the first to spot his potential.

Were you surprised by how quickly he’s settled at Inter? Especially thinking back to when you first gave him his chance?
“He’s become part of a strong rotation, and that’s no small feat at Inter. I think he’s making excellent use of every minute he gets - always eager to help the team, and it’s clear he’s succeeding. Honestly, I expected this.”

Why’s that?
“Because he’s always been a real team player - strong character, great work ethic, and a mindset built around constant improvement. Naturally, every goal or assist gives him even more confidence.”

What do you expect from him in the next few years?
“I believe that in a season or two he’ll become a cornerstone of the team.”

And after that?
“My opinion is that once he leaves Inter, he’ll play for Real Madrid. Just like Mateo Kovačić did.”

What were the qualities that stood out to you when you first worked with him?
“As you know, Petar made his debut for me at Zrinjski, in the Champions League qualifiers. After moving to Dinamo - where he featured for the Under-19s - I brought him back on loan for a season. He made huge progress there. Later, when I took charge of Rijeka and then returned to Dinamo for 2023/24, we worked together again - we won the double and reached the Champions League group stage.

His biggest strengths? Dedication, professionalism, mental toughness, great mobility and an exceptional understanding of the game. He loves football - truly. For him it’s not business or work; it’s pure joy.”

And what about Martin Baturina, whom you also coached at Dinamo?
“Martin is a fantastic player — a true number ten who makes things happen. Serie A is a demanding league, and right now his main challenge is adapting. With more game time that process would be quicker, but he needs to fight for every minute. I’m sure he’ll keep improving under Cesc Fàbregas, who’s already shown great promise as a coach.”