INTER MILAN & CROATIA MIDFIELDER MAKES STRONG CASE AHEAD OF HAKAN CALHANOGLU RETURN FROM SUSPENSION

Petar Sucic Makes a Statement as Hakan Calhanoglu Nears Return from Suspension

Monza, August 27, 2025 – Inter Milan’s young Croatian midfielder Petar Sucic once again captured the spotlight with an impressive performance that may complicate Hakan Calhanoglu’s return from suspension.

Calhanoglu missed the Torino clash due to a one match suspension following disciplinary proceedings. With that ban now served, he is free to return against Udinese this weekend. Normally his reinstatement would be straightforward given his status as one of Inter’s most creative midfielders. However, Sucic’s dynamic showing suggests the coach may be tempted to keep faith with the Croatian talent instead of immediately restoring the Turkish international to the starting lineup.

Piotr Zielinski, who was already competing for minutes in midfield, now finds his place under further threat. The sudden emergence of Sucic has intensified competition and may force veterans to raise their level to hold their spots.

Off the field, Sucic has earned admiration for his grounded nature. When asked about his performance, he quickly shifted focus away from himself. “I do not want to talk about myself. We played a very good match, it was a great victory and we are happy,” he told reporters after the Torino game. That humility reflects the personality of a player shaped by modest beginnings.

Sucic grew up in the village of Bugojno in Bosnia, where he spent his early years on his family’s farm. He has often recalled waking up early to milk cows and spending much of his childhood outdoors. Those experiences, he says, helped him stay grounded and resilient. Unlike many of his peers, he avoids social media to protect his peace of mind. “It is a useful tool but you can easily waste five hours on it. I prefer to live real life,” he explained.

There is also an ironic twist to his story. In 2021 Sucic had a trial with Torino’s youth team but was not offered a place. Four years later he made his professional Serie A debut by dismantling that very club. For Torino, it was a painful reminder of what could have been.

Inter now face a fascinating midfield puzzle. Calhanoglu, when fit, has been a crucial part of the Nerazzurri resurgence in recent seasons. His set piece delivery and passing range have often tilted close games in Inter’s favor. However, injuries to his ankle and calf last season limited his consistency and opened the door for younger options. Chivu must now decide whether to rely on Calhanoglu’s proven quality or embrace the youthful energy that Sucic brings.

As the Udinese match approaches, supporters are eager to see how the coach manages this situation. Will he reward the Croatian for a dream debut with another start or turn to the experienced Turkish playmaker as soon as possible? What is certain is that Petar Sucic has announced himself as a serious contender in Inter’s midfield and his case for more minutes is impossible to ignore.