Ivan Ljubić: “Apollon is the ideal next step for me”

Ivan Ljubić gave his first interview to the official website of Apollon after completing his move to our club. The experienced Croatian midfielder spoke about this new chapter in his career, the position he feels most comfortable playing, his personal goals, and his strong desire to celebrate success in front of the Apollon fans.

Welcome to Apollon. What convinced you to choose our club for the next step in your career?
I spoke with the coach and the sporting director and we had a very good conversation. They spoke very positively about me and showed me that they consider me an important player for the team. Apollon is a big club and I believe it’s the right step for my career. I want to achieve success with this team.

What was the first thing you asked or searched about Apollon?
I wanted to learn more about the club in general – the fans, the people around the team, but also what life is like in the city for me and my family. These aspects are very important to me.

You recently mentioned in the media that you wanted to play outside of Austria. Why was now the right time?
Yes, that’s true. I’ll turn 29 in three weeks, and I’ve played my whole career in Austria. Every footballer wants to experience new countries, new clubs, and different cultures. I’m at a good age now, with plenty of experience, so I feel this is the perfect moment for such a change.

How do you feel about starting this new chapter away from your home country?
Of course, there’s always a bit of uncertainty because it’s something new, but I feel great. I came here with my wife and our son. The first impressions have been excellent, and everyone welcomed me warmly. I have a really good feeling and I’m happy to be here.

What are your first impressions of the facilities?
We had a quick tour. I saw the stadium from the outside and visited the training center. It’s very impressive and modern. The fact that the training ground is so close to the stadium is ideal.

You mentioned earlier the conversations you had with the coach and sporting director. What did they tell you?
They had seen a lot of videos of me and know my game well. I spoke with the coach about the system he wants to implement and I think it fits me perfectly. I can really see myself in this playing style.

Which position suits you best on the pitch?
My main position is as a number 6, but I can also play as an 8 or a 10. I can even play as a central defender if needed. I feel comfortable in multiple roles, but 6 is my natural position. I’m strong defensively, I can support the attack, I’m technically sound, I hold the ball well and I distribute it effectively to my teammates.

Did you have other offers on the table?
Yes, as is usually the case for a free agent, I was approached by several agents and clubs. I didn’t want to say “yes” to the first offer that came. I waited to see what options would appear. When Apollon approached me, I felt good right away. It was my choice.

Was this the first time you received an offer from a Cypriot team? What did you know about Cyprus before Apollon’s interest?
Yes, this was the first offer I received from a team in Cyprus. I didn’t know much about the island, but I happened to visit eight years ago for vacation, so I knew it’s a beautiful country. I also know that football in Cyprus keeps improving. It’s a competitive league and it won’t be easy, but I believe I’m well prepared.

You have over 160 appearances in the Austrian Bundesliga. What do you think you can contribute to Apollon with your experience and personality?
I believe I can contribute with my experience. I’ve played many matches in the Austrian league and also in the Europa League group stage. I can bring calmness to the pitch, take responsibility both on and off the field, and I consider myself a positive character. That’s important for a good team atmosphere.

What are your personal goals with Apollon?
The most important thing is to stay healthy and to play in as many matches as possible. I know Apollon is a club that competes for titles – that’s one of the reasons I came here. With titles comes European football, and I want to play in Europe again. For now, I want to get to know the team and have a strong pre-season. So far, everything feels really positive.

You’ve had some injuries in the past. How are you feeling physically now?
Last year I had the most serious injury of my career – a muscular one. I think the doctor made a mistake by letting me return too early. I got injured again, but the recovery process after that was the right one. Now I feel excellent. I played a lot of matches in the last six months, full 90 minutes, and I’m in the best physical condition of my career.

Would you like to send a message to the Apollon fans?
I can’t wait to play in front of you. I want us to celebrate many victories together!