Vanja Drkusic Reflects on Sochi, Italy, and a Rising Slovenian Career
Vanja Drkusic, the Slovenian defender who has worn the Sochi shirt since 2022, expresses clear affection for the city. He notes that Sochi offers a more enjoyable overall experience when compared to some other places he has visited, pointing to the weather, the quality of dining options, hospitality, and a wealth of tourist attractions as strong positives. In his view, Sochi stands out as a beautiful and compelling place for both living and playing professional football.
Drkusic also shares a perspective shaped by contrasts with his experiences in southern Italy. He recalls a region burdened by litter in places, yet acknowledges receiving fewer visitors there than in Sochi. The defender emphasizes that in his judgment, the southern coastline cannot match Sochi for quality of life and the overall atmosphere for a player who balances competition with enjoying his surroundings. He underscores that Italian crime concerns he has heard about in parts of the south are not mirrored in Sochi, highlighting a sense of safety and daily comfort that contributes to his positive view of the Russian city.
Since joining Sochi in 2022, Drkusic has continued to develop as a professional. His journey began in his hometown with Bravo and later took him to the Dutch league, where Heerenveen provided a valuable training ground for his development. The 2023 season marked a milestone as he received a call-up to the Slovenian national team for the first time. He earned his first cap in the Euro 2024 qualifiers, appearing in a qualifier match against San Marino, a moment that signaled the growing recognition of his abilities on the international stage.
In the current campaign, Drkusic has taken part in 10 Russian Premier League matches, contributing one goal. His team faces a difficult moment, sitting at the bottom of the table after 13 rounds. Looking ahead, Sochi is scheduled to face Dynamo on November 6, a fixture that offers a chance to shift momentum and demonstrate the club’s resilience under pressure. This phase of the season is proving critical for both the player and the squad as they navigate the challenges of high-level competition.
There has also been discussion around figures like Igor Akinfeev and speculation about future moves, highlighting the broader context in which players like Drkusic operate. The conversations about transitions and potential exits remain part of the football landscape in Russia, yet the defender continues to focus on his role in Sochi and the contributions he can make on the pitch as the season unfolds.