Title: A Coaching Legend’s Farewell: Branko Ivanković Reflects on a Storied Career, Celebrating Success from Croatia to Iran
In an extensive and revealing interview with Croatian media outlet Index, legendary football coach Branko Ivanković, now on the cusp of 72, has officially announced his retirement, drawing the curtain on a remarkable four-decade-long coaching career. The former head coach of the Iranian national team and Persepolis FC took the opportunity to detail his professional journey, from its humble beginnings to becoming an iconic figure in Iranian football.
A Decision to Retire
Just days before his announcement, Ivanković revealed he had received several offers, including a consultant role for the Indonesian national team and a candidacy for the head coach position of Uzbekistan. However, he ultimately decided that the time was right to conclude a 40-year career he looks back on with immense pride, citing his extensive education and master’s degree in football as points of particular honor.
Roots and Philosophy
Speaking from his own sports center in his hometown of Varaždin, Ivanković traced his career back to its origins, emphasizing the importance of his family and city, which he poetically referred to as his “paradise.” He stressed that maintaining these roots was a priority throughout his 25 years of working abroad. A self-described organized and quiet professional, he built his career on results, never engaging in self-promotion or lobbying, and always letting his work speak for itself.
Collaboration with a Legend
A significant portion of his career was spent as the assistant to the fiery and legendary Croatian coach, Miroslav “Ćiro” Blažević. Ivanković described their partnership as a perfect synergy of opposites; while Blažević was a genius of instinct and quick reactions, Ivanković provided meticulous organization and analysis. He credited Blažević with inviting him into the elite circles of football, allowing him to contribute to major tournaments like Euro 1996 and the 1998 World Cup.
An Enduring Bond with Iran
Ivanković’s narrative took a pivotal turn when he departed for Tehran, a move that would define a major part of his legacy. He spoke with deep respect and admiration for Iran, its rich history, and its people. He attributed his success there to the ability of Croatian coaches to adapt respectfully to different cultures, traditions, and religions.
He described Iranians as exceptionally hospitable, respectful to foreigners who show respect in return, and deeply devoted to their families—a trait he saw reflected in the dedication of its footballers. While acknowledging initial infrastructural challenges, he took pride in his role in helping to modernize and organize clubs like Persepolis, elevating their standards.
The Persepolis Glory Days
His time at Persepolis was marked by an against-all-odds triumph. Taking over the team just five weeks before the end of a season to save them from relegation, he then faced a monumental rebuilding task. After a disastrous start to the following season, he boldly announced in a press conference that the team would become champions—a statement met with disbelief. While they narrowly missed the title that year, they went on to secure three consecutive championships and reached the AFC Champions League final under his guidance.
He highlighted the club’s immense popularity, noting its 40 million fans, and shared vivid anecdotes of the overwhelming yet peaceful passion of the supporters, emphasizing that even in defeat, their enthusiasm never turned to anger or violence.
Pinnacle and Challenge with Team Melli
Leading Iran to the 2006 World Cup stands as the pinnacle of his head coaching career, an achievement that sparked unprecedented national celebrations. He contrasted this joy with the challenges faced during the tournament itself, where the team managed only a single point. He explained this was primarily due to critical injuries to key players like Ali Karimi, Mehdi Mahdavikia, and Vahid Hashemian just before the competition.
A Global Perspective
Reflecting on his experiences across Asia, from China to Oman, Ivanković praised China’s technological advancement and Oman’s unique beauty and governance, which he likened to the “Switzerland of the Islamic world.” He noted the distinct characteristics of players in each country, from the hard-working Omani players to the disciplined yet sometimes fearful Chinese footballers.
A Legendary Eleven
In a final, personal touch, Ivanković selected his all-time XI from the players he coached, a team that fittingly included two Iranian stars, Ali Karimi and Mehdi Mahdavikia, alongside global greats like Luka Modrić and Davor Šuker, a testament to the diverse and successful journey he now concludes.