Young hopes- Dominik Drobnič (Parma): Why the move to Italy? Because it is – clearly – known for its good defensive footballers!

Published on 7. July 2024 7. July 2024

Photo: Parma Calcio

To go abroad or stay at home? The eternal dilemma in Slovenian football. The answer… Well, everyone thinks differently. Many are critical, saying that young players shouldn’t leave home so quickly. But at the same time, we must also put ourselves in the shoes of a teenager who receives a fantastic offer. Should they really refuse a more organized environment, better financial conditions, and a club that means something in the world of football, and instead stay home, continuing to train on “sawdust” and mud? Regardless, under these conditions, Slovenian football produces numerous quality individuals every year, whom even the most discerning experts predict will have prosperous careers. One such individual is Dominik Drobnič, a young defender who signed a professional contract with Bravo as a teenager, and then moved to Italy before making his senior debut.

Born in 2007, Dominik Drobnič has been honing his skills in the youth system of Parma since last year. He initially played for the cadet team in the luxurious province, and in the new season, he is already preparing for youth football. On the Apennine Peninsula, he found what he was looking for – a well-organized club and playing time. Many might get “lost” when moving abroad, but Dominik Drobnič, our next guest in the “Young Talent” section, did not. In his first season in Italy, he played regularly and performed very well. Experts praise him as a promising defender, but those of us who follow Slovenian football more closely already knew that. Dominik Drobnič is a promising talent.

Dominik Drobnič: “I couldn’t enjoy football”

But why did Dominik Drobnič actually decide to leave Bravo, a club in Slovenia known for its trust in young players? Why did he leave for abroad even before reaching adulthood? “I decided to move because I wanted to progress and experience a different style of playing football. Parma is an excellent club, and Italy is known for its good defensive players. Naturally, I was a bit scared at the beginning because you never know how you’ll adapt to a new environment and being away from family and friends,” Dominik Drobnič initially told Planet nogomet.

A member of the club from the Ennio Tardini stadium, which was once among the best in Italy, he also admitted that the transition was not easy, but today he regrets nothing. “I have to admit that the first two months were quite tough because I didn’t talk much with my teammates and couldn’t enjoy football. Now I’ve gotten used to it, and I like life in Italy. This also shows in my playing and connection with the team, which has become my second family,” emphasized Dominik Drobnič, as he answered questions in our “Young Talent” section.

Where and when did you start training in football?

I started training football at the age of five, in the youth system of Ljubljana’s Olimpija.

Who inspired you to play football and who has had the biggest influence on you in football?

My parents bought me my first ball, which became my favorite toy. I’ve always loved ball sports since I was little, but my love for football grew over the years. My longtime coach, Hajro Rizvić, had a big influence on my football journey. He was an excellent coach with whom we experienced a lot and got to know football beyond the borders of our country.

What do you like most about football?

Everything! The game, the camaraderie, the emotions. Even when I’m in a bad mood, I forget about everything when I step onto the field.

Your favorite football moment so far?

My favorite moment happened two years ago. In the final of the national championship for under-15 against NK Maribor, we were losing 0:3 in the first half, but then we turned the result around to 4:3 in the second half and won the national championship.

Why do you think football is the best sport in the world?

Because it’s the most popular sport where anything is possible. I’ve loved football since I was little, watching the biggest football stars on TV.

Who is your football role model – domestic and foreign?

When I was younger, my favorite role model was Leo Messi. Given my playing position (defender), in recent years, I’ve been impressed by the performances of two of the best defenders, Sergio Ramos and Virgil van Dijk.

Who is your toughest opponent and why?

I am my toughest opponent. I aim to improve myself every day and not worry about others.

In your opinion, what is the most important quality of a successful footballer?

In my opinion, the most important qualities are hard work and perseverance. Given the competition in football, you need to work hard every day and persevere even when it’s tough.

What do you find most challenging on the path to achieving your football dreams?

I think injuries are the most challenging. You can’t predict them, but they can greatly affect any footballer and their journey.

How do you deal with disappointment after defeats?

When I was younger, I found it hard to accept losses and wouldn’t talk to anyone after games. Despite my competitiveness, over the years, I’ve learned that I can learn something from every defeat.