Luka Topalović (foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
Luka Topalović, one of Slovenia’s brightest football talents, reflects on his development at Inter Milan, his goals, and how the Slovenian league shaped his career.
Luka Topalović, an 18-year-old Slovenian football sensation, is making waves in Inter Milan’s youth setup, with two goals in the UEFA Youth League against Leipzig further solidifying his reputation as one of the top young prospects. In an exclusive interview, the former Domžale and Maribor player opened up about his journey, the challenges of playing abroad, and his ultimate dream of breaking into Inter’s senior team.
Topalović, who joined Inter after 49 senior appearances for Domžale in the Slovenian Prva Liga, acknowledges the difficult decision he faced in choosing the Italian giants.
"It wasn’t an easy decision. At my age, it’s not simple to make such big choices, but I have a great family I can rely on. I’ll admit, there was a bit of fear—I know how difficult it has been in the past for young Slovenian players in Italy. But every player is different, and I was determined. Playing in Slovenia’s top league and the transfer fee involved gave me confidence, and I believe I can succeed," Topalović explained.
Settling into life at Inter, Topalović has embraced the challenges of playing in the Primavera League, finding it even tougher than Slovenia’s Prva Liga or the Youth League.
"Playing here is amazing. Everything is well-organized, and every detail is taken care of. The tempo is intense, and there’s less space compared to the Youth League or Slovenia’s top flight. It’s challenging, but I’m improving. The competition within the team itself is incredibly strong, and I’m learning every day," he said.
Despite his youth, Topalović credits his time in Slovenia’s senior football for shaping his mentality.
"Playing in the Prva Liga taught me responsibility. In senior football, everything is more serious, and the expectations are higher. At Domžale, we weren’t in the best position, but I believe that experience will help me in the long run," he reflected.
Topalović has already trained with Simone Inzaghi’s first team, sharing the pitch with stars like Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Piotr Zielinski, who offered valuable advice.
"I trained with them in the summer, and I still occasionally join when they need extra players. I had some nerves at first, especially in the beginning, but they welcomed me warmly. The professionalism at this club is incredible. Training alongside players of this caliber is amazing," said Topalović.
The Slovenian youngster is focused on continuing his progress but remains realistic about the path ahead.
"For now, I’m focused on the competitions I’m playing in. I can’t say for sure that I’ll break into Inter’s first team, but that’s my goal. I work hard every day, and I believe I can achieve it. Where and how it happens, only time will tell," he added.
A source of inspiration for Topalović is Samir Handanović, the legendary Slovenian goalkeeper who now works within Inter’s youth system.
"All the teams train in the same complex, so I see Samir regularly. We’ve spoken a few times. He’s a legend of the club, and I’m proud to be in the same organization as him," said Topalović.
While Topalović has represented Slovenia at every youth level, including excelling at the U17 European Championship, speculation has arisen in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina about whether he could eventually switch allegiances. However, he remains fully committed to Slovenia.
"Honestly, I don’t think about that. I’m focused on playing for Slovenia’s U19 team. We’ve qualified for the Elite Round, and I hope we’ll be successful there," he said.
As one of Slovenia’s most exciting young players, Topalović remains humble but determined to make his mark on football, with the ultimate aim of breaking into Inter’s senior team and following in the footsteps of Slovenia’s greats.