Lazar Marković: “I want to return with Apollon to the European stage”

Lazar Marković, the new signing of our team, spoke to apollon.com.cy about his transfer to Apollon Limassol.

The experienced attacking midfielder expressed his excitement for this new challenge in his career, referred to his goals with Apollon, the importance of his experience, and his motivation to achieve success both in the league and in Europe.

How do you feel about continuing your career with our club?
“I feel very good. I had heard many positive things about Apollon and, together with my family, I decided to come here. I’m excited, motivated and can’t wait to start playing.”

What convinced you to say ‘yes’ to Apollon?
“I have many friends who play in Cyprus and all of them spoke very highly, both about the people and the football here.”

Who are some of those friends?
“Sasa Marković, Aleksandar Jovanović, Luka Stojanović and Nikola Trujić.”

What did you know about Apollon and Limassol?
“I know that Apollon is one of the biggest clubs in Cyprus with a long history. As for Limassol, I already knew it because I had been here on holiday with my family.”

How do you see the level of Cypriot football?
“It keeps improving. I watched the teams competing in Europe and I believe it’s a competitive league that is developing quickly.”

You have played in top leagues and clubs. What keeps you hungry for football?
“Even though I’m not 18 anymore, I still feel young and strong. I want to play at a high level, and that’s why I always remain hungry for success.”

After some time outside of Europe, how important is this return for you?
“It’s very important. I want us to fight for titles and for a European spot. I’ve missed that feeling — I experienced it with Partizan — and I believe I deserve to be back on the European stage.”

What’s the secret to staying competitive after so many years in football?
“Hard work, focus and passion. I learned a lot from great players I played alongside, and now I want to bring my own experience to Apollon.”

How much have your experiences helped you mature?
“A lot. I’ve been playing professionally for 14 years and I learned everything through football. It helped me grow both as a player and as a person.”

In which ways do you think you can help the team?
“I will give 100% on and off the pitch. I want to score, provide assists, and fight for Apollon in every game. I had a phone call with the coach before coming to Cyprus and I had a very good feeling about him. I already knew him from last year when we played a friendly against his former team.”

Which moment do you consider decisive in your career?
“My start at Partizan. It was the beginning of everything that followed. I had great moments at every club I played for, and I’ll always remember them.”

In your first season you were voted best player. How difficult was that for a kid?
“It wasn’t difficult because I didn’t feel pressure. I was young, enjoying football, and I had excellent teammates and a great coach.”

Why did you choose the number 50?
“It has been my lucky number since the start of my career. At Partizan, the kitman gave me the No.50 shirt and since then it has followed me everywhere.”

 

What message would you like to send to the fans?
“Everyone has high expectations, and so do I. I promise that I will always give my 100%, in training and in games. We want to fight for the top and qualify for Europe. My goal is to contribute with goals and assists.”