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Dejan Ljubičić: As soon as I saw the missed call, I had a good feeling
For Dejan Ljubičić, a lifelong dream is finally being realised. The Schalke midfielder has been included in Austria’s squad for the FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the USA. The 28-year-old received a late call-up from Austria head coach Ralf Rangnick following the withdrawal of Christoph Baumgartner due to injury shortly before the tournament began. The nomination is a reward for his consistently impressive performances over recent months for the Royal Blues.
Ljubičić received the confirmation of his World Cup selection while on holiday on Croatia’s Adriatic coast. Rangnick, who led Schalke to DFB-Pokal glory in 2010/11, had tried to reach the midfielder by phone early in the morning. “The call from the head coach came at 7am,” Ljubičić revealed at a press conference at Austria’s base camp in California.
However, he initially missed the call. “I slept in until half past nine,” the midfielder admitted with a grin. Once Rangnick finally managed to get hold of the midfielder, the joy was immense. “As soon as I saw the missed call on my screen, I already had a good feeling,” said Ljubičić, who has earned nine caps for Austria to date.
I’m delighted to be part of it. It’s something very special.
After leaving Split, Schalke’s number 21 travelled to Vienna before joining up with the squad at their World Cup base camp in the USA. “I’m delighted to be part of it. It’s something very special,” said the right-footer.
Rangnick’s decision to call up Ljubičić comes as little surprise. Since joining Schalke from Dinamo Zagreb during the winter transfer window, the Austrian has quickly established himself as a key figure in the team. His dynamism, versatility and eye for goal have given the Royal Blues an added attacking dimension.
After signing for the club, Ljubičić featured in every single league match for the remainder of the campaign, scoring four goals and providing three assists. His contributions played a significant role in helping Schalke secure promotion back to the Bundesliga.
Versatile midfielder ready for the world stage
Ljubičić’s qualities are equally appreciated within the Austria national team, who begin their World Cup campaign against Jordan on Wednesday (17/6) at 06:00 CEST. The Schalke midfielder is capable of operating in several midfield roles, brings experience from various European leagues and is regarded as a player who always puts the team first. “I’ve been playing good football recently,” he said confidently, while also emphasising the collective focus. “I’m here to support the team. I’ll give everything.”
Despite his joy at being selected, the 28-year-old has not forgotten the difficult circumstances surrounding his call-up. “I’m incredibly upset for Baumi,” he said, referring to the injured Christoph Baumgartner. At the same time, Ljubičić is determined to make the most of this opportunity and contribute to a successful tournament. His aim for the weeks ahead is clear: to represent both Austria and himself in the best possible way.
Alongside Jordan, Austria’s Group J opponents are reigning world champions Argentina on Monday (22/6) and Algeria on Sunday (28/6).
