Lenny Ilečić, a versatile forward who can play both wings as well as a striker, first grabbed the spotlight as the top scorer at the prestigious Mladen Ramljak tournament. He later lit up the Zlatibor stage with a sensational hat-trick against Red Star Belgrade, including a volley reminiscent of Zidane. Standing at 180 cm, he is recognized for his speed, fighting spirit, and relentless pressing.
Rising star
After rising through Dinamo Zagreb’s academy, Lenny signed for HNK Gorica, where he went on to play 17 matches in Croatia’s top senior division, the 1. HNL, along with more than 15 cup and friendly games, recording 6 goals and 4 assists. However, his promising momentum was suddenly interrupted by a serious ACL injury to his right knee. The surgery was performed by professor Dr. Nemec, a long-time doctor of the Croatian national team, in Matulji, while his rehabilitation continues at Polyclinic Tendo in Zagreb with physiotherapist Lucijan.
Nextsportnews sat down with Lenny to talk about his recovery, ambitions, and role models.
Q&A Highlights
Q: Lenny, how does your daily routine look like during this long recovery period?
A: I train hard every single day, sometimes two or even three sessions, working closely with physiotherapist Lucijan at Polyclinic Tendo. I can’t wait to get back on the pitch and start scoring goals again – football is my life. During this time, you really understand how important health is and you start to appreciate it much more. I definitely think differently today. My plan is to return to team training by the end of this year, then go through preparations and a gradual return over four to five months. I believe that after the summer preseason in 2026, I’ll be back at my best.
Q: Who has been your biggest football inspiration throughout your career?
A: For me, number one is Zlatan Ibrahimović. I’ve always admired his style of play, the way he positions himself and uses his intelligence on the pitch. I’ve read all the books about him, watched the documentaries, and what inspires me the most is how he came from nothing and built such an incredible career. It was never easy for him – growing up in Malmö with all the challenges he faced – but he had the character and persistence to push through even when no one believed in him. Zlatan proved that with resilience and belief in yourself, you can achieve anything. That’s the mindset I try to carry with me every day.
Q: And if Zlatan is number one, who comes second on your list of idols?
A: And definitely, in second place, it has to be Luka Modrić. He’s a true inspiration, not just for me but for the whole world. The way he leads by example, his vision, his passing, and how at 39 years old he’s still dominating at the highest level – it’s just unbelievable. I’ve also read his book and it gave me even more motivation. What touches me most is how Luka overcame difficult beginnings, grew step by step, and built a career based on hard work, humility, and consistency. He shows that talent is important, but without discipline and determination, it’s impossible to stay at the top. That’s the kind of professional I want to become.
Despite the setback of his ACL injury, surgery under professor Dr. Nemec, and long months of recovery at Polyclinic Tendo, Lenny’s determination shines through. He knows the road back won’t be easy, but his belief and persistence remain stronger than ever.
Nextsportnews thanks Lenny Ilecic for his time and wishes him a successful comeback and career ahead.
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