Punjab FC, currently riding high on their qualification for the AIFF Super Cup semi-finals, have significantly bolstered their squad with the arrival of Bosnian international Samir Zeljkovic. The experienced defensive midfielder brings notable European pedigree, having played in prestigious competitions such as the UEFA Nations League and the UEFA Conference League qualifiers.
In an exclusive conversation, Zeljkovic shared insights into his decision to move to India, his positive shock at the club’s professionalism, and how the team are navigating the unique challenge posed by the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the start date of the Indian Super League (ISL).
The Call to Punjab
Asked what convinced him to make the leap from European football to the Indian domestic set-up, Zeljkovic admitted the move came together quickly but with clarity.
“Honestly, my agent contacted me around September, introducing me to the club’s project,” Zeljkovic explained. “After I spoke with the sporting director and the coach, and saw their vision and play style, I immediately said I totally agree with everything. I am really happy to be part of this team and I hope we will achieve our goals this season.”
Zeljkovic, who spent a significant part of his career in Bosnia playing for his hometown club FK Sarajevo, admitted he arrived with some apprehension regarding the standards.
“To be honest, I didn’t believe it would be at such a high level,” he confessed. “Coming from Europe and playing in big competitions, I was a little bit scared. But when I came here and saw the training ground, the facilities, and the very professional staff, I was totally shocked, positively, of course. Everything is good, everything is going very well.”
A Career Forged in Europe
The 28-year-old’s journey saw him navigate the difficult path from youth academy to senior football in Bosnia, emphasising the crucial importance of playing time for young talent.
“I always say, now these young guys, when I was in their position, I was only looking for clubs where I could get playing time. It doesn’t matter if it’s the second league or third league. At that age, you must have minutes.”
His career included five successful years with Velez Mostar, where the club secured European qualification and he earned his first call-up to the Bosnia national team. He later returned to FK Sarajevo before moving on loan to Bunyodkor in Uzbekistan and then joining Radnički Kragujevac in Serbia, where he helped the team qualify for European competitions.
Uzbekistan and the Path to the World Cup
Having recently played in Uzbekistan, a nation that has seen rapid football development and secured its first-ever FIFA World Cup qualification, Zeljković provided a unique perspective.
“They are progressing very well. When I came there, they had modern facilities, big grounds, and a great academy,” he said, drawing parallels with Punjab FC’s own focus on youth. “Football in Uzbekistan is developing very well. You see they qualified for the World Cup for the first time in their history.”
He highlighted that having Italian and European coaches has helped drive their success, noting the investment in infrastructure and top-class stadiums.
Super Cup Focus and the East Bengal Challenge
Zeljkovic’s arrival coincided with Punjab FC’s strong Super Cup group-stage performance, securing a place in the semi-finals against East Bengal.
“We are preparing like every other game. We prepare very well because we know it’s one match, and everything can happen. You must respect your opponent,” he said.
Regarding their high-profile semi-final opponents, he acknowledged the rivalry. “We know that East Bengal are a big club with a big history. We are scouting and analysing them, we are doing those things. We don’t talk too much about them because we know our plan, we know our coach’s vision, and that’s the way we go. For sure, we are hoping we can reach the final.”
Dealing with the ISL Uncertainty
Perhaps the most pressing issue in Indian football is the current delay and uncertainty surrounding the league’s start. While Punjab FC are busy preparing for the Super Cup, other clubs have paused operations, leaving players without training.
“I must be honest, we were lucky that we reached the semi-finals,” Zeljkovic admitted. “We spoke in the dressing room and said, ‘Let’s win it because we still don’t know what’s going on with the league.’ Our profession is to train and to play football matches.”
He empathised with the players and clubs who have had to stop training. “It’s difficult for football players to train and prepare when you don’t know what you’re preparing for. I understand the clubs and the coaching staff of other teams because they cannot plan for the future.”
He ended on a hopeful note: “We are lucky to have this opportunity. I hope in the next few days or next week they will announce the dates so that the other teams can start their training and preparation, for all Indian football lovers and for the players.”
Settling in Punjab
Zeljkovic confirmed that he and the other foreign players have adapted quickly, thanks to the supportive environment.
“We adapt very fast because the club accepted us, our team-mates accepted us very well, and the coaches, of course,” he said.
As for the cultural shift, he acknowledged the famous Indian spice levels. “Everyone told me it will be different with the food… But my opinion is you can find everything here in India. The club staff adjust everything for foreign players so they feel comfortable, like they are at home.”
Zeljkovic concluded by expressing his gratitude and excitement for the journey ahead, hoping for success in the Super Cup and beyond.