Petar Sucic’s early season at Inter has become a question of rhythm rather than status. Croatia have given him more time on the pitch across four international matches than Inter have managed in six official fixtures, and the midfielder’s comments after defeat to Spain have added a note of uncertainty to an already difficult international break.
The loss was Croatia’s third in succession, leaving little room for optimism around the camp. Asked whether he was content with his role at Inter, Sucic chose not to address it directly.
“I would rather discuss that at another time,” he said. “The national team is what matters now. When I return to Milan, we will fight for Inter, and in two or three months we will see what the situation is.”
Quick facts
- Sucic has featured in five of Inter’s six official matches, starting two.
- He has played more minutes for Croatia in four appearances than for Inter so far.
- The midfielder will turn 23 on the 25th of this month.
- His Inter contract runs until 2030 and is worth €1.5 million per season.
- His representatives have indicated that they want talks over improved terms.
The remarks arrived shortly after Zvonimir Boban, now president of Dinamo Zagreb, questioned whether Sucic was being used as he should be under Cristian Chivu. Boban argued that the player does not appear comfortable and described him as one of the finest box-to-box midfielders in world football.
Boban went further, suggesting that it would be difficult to understand the value of Sucic staying at Inter if his place in the side did not improve. The comments naturally invited talk of a future away from Milan.
Inter, however, are not treating an exit as a live issue. The club regard the former Dinamo Zagreb player as a high-level midfielder whose adaptation and development are still in progress.
His qualities have already been visible, but consistency has not yet followed on every occasion. More regular football could bring greater confidence, as his established role with Croatia has shown, but Inter’s midfield depth makes rotation unavoidable.
That rotation should become even more significant when the schedule becomes heavier in the coming weeks. Sucic is therefore expected to collect further opportunities, rather than be pushed towards the margins.
There is also a contractual element behind the discussion. Having been at Inter for little more than a season, Sucic is already seeking recognition for a standing that has risen since his move to Italy.
Interest from England has begun to emerge, strengthening the case his camp will make for a pay rise. Inter deputy sporting director Dario Baccin is aware of the position, and a meeting concerning Sucic has a place on his agenda.
