Ivan Santini: The Striker Who Rejected Real Madrid and Chooses Only Two Clubs!
Have you ever heard of a player who could have played for Real Madrid but said “no”? Meet Ivan Santini, a 36-year-old striker who was one of the best in the Supersport HNL last season but decided not to change his address because of family and chooses only two clubs – Zadar or Hajduk!
Santini – The Leader in the Hell of Šibenik
Last season, Santini was the backbone of Šibenik, a club that fought desperately to stay up. In 32 matches, he scored 7 goals and was the most important player in a team that was eventually relegated to the fourth tier due to financial problems. Although his contract expired, he is not looking for any offers. His only options are Zadar or Hajduk. Yes, you read that right – he even rejected Real Madrid!
Why Reject Real Madrid?
Santini revealed in the Inkubator podcast that his only option is to stay in Dalmatia because of his family and life in his hometown Zadar. Although Hajduk currently has a shortage of strikers, Santini is not sure how interested they are, but he would seriously consider that option. Zadar, which competes in the 3. NL jug, is also attractive to him, although it is a much lower level.
A Career Full of Ups and Downs
Santini has played for numerous clubs across Europe and Asia: Inter Zaprešić, FC Ingolstadt 04, SC Freiburg (loan), Kortrijk, Standard Liège, Caen, Anderlecht, Jiangsu Suning, NK Osijek, Al-Fateh, Zürich, and HNK Šibenik. In the Belgian league, he scored 51 goals, in France for Caen 26 goals in 66 appearances, and a total of 36 goals in the HNL.
What Does This Mean for Croatian Football?
Santini’s decision to stay in Dalmatia, rejecting offers from big clubs, shows how important family values and local identity are to some players. But what does it say about the state of Croatian football? Clubs like Šibenik struggle with financial problems, and players like Santini choose security and home over big careers abroad.
An Interesting Perspective
Santini is an example of a player who is not willing to sacrifice his peace and family for fame and money. His career proves that success is not measured only by the number of goals or clubs played for but also by how true he is to himself and his values.
Conclusion
Ivan Santini is not just a footballer – he is a symbol of resistance to the modern football world where everything revolves around money and fame. He chooses home, family, and local community, even if it means rejecting offers many would dream of. Is it courage or madness? You decide!
If you have your own take on Santini’s decision or know someone who would also reject Real Madrid, drop a comment below – let’s have some laughs or spark a debate!
