Because of the trouble with Gennaro Gattuso, Ivan Perisic’s (international) career was in danger of fading away. The 36-year-old forward refused to accept that. Perisic got back up, played his 150th international match on Monday, and now stands on the verge of his fourth World Cup. And we’re going to make ourselves seen.
The official football history of Croatia began in 1990, just before the nation formally declared independence from Yugoslavia.
It was a turbulent period in which the country was reshaping its identity both politically and culturally, and football quickly became one of the strongest vehicles for national pride. In the decades that followed, the Croatian national team rapidly grew into one of Europe’s most respected footballing nations, regularly competing on the biggest stages. Since that historic starting point, Croatia has played 395 official international matches, producing countless memorable moments and iconic players.
Among those players, Ivan Perisic stands as one of the most influential. Featuring in almost 38 percent of all Croatian internationals ever played, Perisic has carved out a legacy that few in Croatian football can match. Now in the later stages of his career, the winger continues to be a cornerstone of Zlatko Dalic’s squad. His dedication and consistency were once again on display during the visit to Montenegro, where he earned his 150th cap. Only Luka Modric, the legendary midfield maestro, surpasses him with 193 appearances. Together, they form one of the most experienced and decorated duos in world football.
The win in Podgorica carried special significance. Croatia had never before come back from a 2–0 deficit to win a match, making the result both historic and symbolic. With the victory, Croatia secured qualification for the World Cup for the fourth consecutive edition. Perisic has been part of every one of those journeys, from Brazil 2014 to Russia 2018, Qatar 2022, and now on to the 2026 finals in Canada, Mexico and the United States. His impact in Russia remains unforgettable, scoring in the final against France and pushing Croatia to the brink of a fairytale world title. Reflecting on the current squad’s development, Perisic said after the Montenegro match that Croatia had regained the same level of intensity, unity and quality they showed in Russia. According to him, the team has proved time and time again that character is one of its strongest traits.
Perisic’s own career reflects that same resilience. When he returned to Hajduk Split last year, many believed the homecoming marked the perfect closing chapter of his long journey. But those plans collapsed almost immediately. The arrival of Gennaro Gattuso created tension behind the scenes, leading to disagreements over training intensity, tactical roles and Perisic’s place in the squad. The conflict escalated quickly. Perisic filed a transfer request, was removed from the squad and eventually reached an agreement with technical director Nikola Kalinic to mutually terminate his contract. The episode left a sour taste among Hajduk supporters, some of whom even booed Perisic upon his later return to Split as a national team player.
From being celebrated as a returning hero, Perisic suddenly found himself painted as a villain. But instead of letting the situation define him, he used it as fuel. His move to PSV reignited his career. At the Dutch club, Perisic became a driving force behind last season’s championship win, contributing goals, assists and leadership that elevated the entire squad. His performances proved he remained capable of competing at the highest level, shutting down any suggestion that he was past his prime.
Speaking after the World Cup qualifier against Montenegro, Perisic openly addressed his earlier struggles and used them as motivation for his teammates. He stressed that any player who finds themselves sidelined must take responsibility for their career. If you’re not playing, you need to find a club where you will, he said. He explained that he had done the same throughout his career, and that staying sharp and competitive is crucial for anyone hoping to perform on the World Cup stage.
Perisic, the Croatian player with the most combined goals and assists in European Championships and World Cups, expressed deep pride in reaching his 150th international appearance. He spoke emotionally about the importance of the national team in his life and what wearing the Croatian shirt has always meant to him. But perhaps the most memorable tribute came not from a teammate or coach, but from Mladen Pilcic, the long-serving kit man of the national team. In the dressing room in Montenegro, Pilcic delivered an unexpected speech, declaring, Big Ivan is celebrating his 150th cap. Gattuso and his frightened followers have fallen. His words were met with roars of approval from the entire squad.
Meanwhile, the irony of Gattuso’s situation has not gone unnoticed in Croatia. While Perisic has secured his place at the next World Cup, Gattuso’s Italy are far from safe. Finishing second in Group I behind a dominant Norway, Italy now face the uncertainty of the play-offs. Gattuso apologised to Italian supporters after the heavy defeat against Norway, but despite his public contrition, he never offered an apology to Perisic for the events in Split. Regardless, Perisic has moved on. He will be in Canada, Mexico and the United States next year, ready to chase another deep tournament run.
And as he promised with confidence, Croatia will not be there just to take part. We’re going to make ourselves seen.
Updated: 11:05, 18 Nov 2025
