The recent clash against Club Brugge served as a microcosm of Pasalic`s career: starting behind, digging deep, and ultimately turning the tide. With Atalanta trailing, it was Pasalic who first drew a crucial penalty, which was duly converted to level the scores. Then, in the 86th minute, displaying his trademark knack for arriving in the right place at the opportune moment, he found the net himself, securing a vital victory. It was a performance that spoke volumes, not just of his immediate impact, but of a career built on relentless effort and tactical intelligence.
A Decade of Dedication: Loyalty in an Age of Transience
Pasalic’s journey with Atalanta is a rare testament to loyalty in modern football. Now in his eighth season, the Croatian international is far from a fleeting presence. This past summer, his commitment was solidified with a contract renewal extending until 2028, a decision that wasn`t made lightly. His agent, Marko Naletilic, revealed a fascinating insight into the player`s resolve:
“Mario received very significant offers, some almost impossible to refuse. We’re talking about two high-level Italian clubs, a great English offer, and especially the incredibly rich one from Al Shabab in Saudi Arabia. An engagement that would have multiplied his current salary by five or six. Yet he never had doubts: he chose with his heart, and his heart brought him to Bergamo.”
In an era where lucrative offers often dictate career paths, Pasalic`s choice to remain with La Dea speaks volumes. It`s a pragmatic decision, perhaps, but one steeped in emotional connection to a club that has become his footballing home. It took a significant investment – €16 million in total for his loan and eventual permanent transfer from Spartak Moscow in 2018 – but looking back, it`s clear Atalanta secured a bargain, a player whose value far exceeds his price tag.
The Evolution of an “Underrated” Leader
For too long, Pasalic has been labelled as “underrated,” a quiet workhorse whose contributions often flew under the radar. But after seven seasons, over 300 appearances, and 61 goals for Atalanta, that narrative is finally shifting. Approaching 30, he is now unequivocally recognized as one of the undisputed leaders within the squad. His versatility allows him to operate effectively across the midfield, adapting to various tactical demands with ease – a true asset for any coach.
His post-match comments after the Club Brugge game encapsulated his professional ethos:
“A penalty won and a goal? Good, but I`d say the victory is more important, which we needed a lot after the not-so-brilliant start and the heavy defeat in Paris. We needed this win. We`ll enjoy it, but we`re already looking to the next one, because in three days there`s a new match.”
Such pragmatism, devoid of self-aggrandizement, highlights why he is so valued. He is a player focused on the collective, a true team-first individual. This summer saw significant changes within the Atalanta squad, yet Pasalic remained a steadfast presence, a consistent pillar amidst the ebb and flow of transfers. His reliability is not just in his availability, but in his performance – always delivering, always contributing.
The Legacy of the Croatian Connector
Mario Pasalic embodies the spirit of Atalanta: hardworking, resilient, and consistently punching above its weight. His journey from a promising loanee to a celebrated club veteran underscores the importance of patience, perseverance, and genuine connection. While his immediate focus remains firmly on Atalanta`s ambitions, he has often spoken of his desire to conclude his career back where it all began, with Hajduk Split in Croatia – a romantic notion that further endears him to fans.
For now, however, Bergamo is his stage, and Mario Pasalic, the understated maestro, continues to conduct Atalanta`s midfield with quiet authority, ensuring that the `underrated` tag becomes nothing more than a historical footnote to a truly remarkable career.
