Leon Grgic, an 18-year-old striker for SK Sturm, is gaining recognition in Graz football. After a standout performance, including a double against WSG Tirol and key contributions in the UEFA Youth League, he aims to achieve his dream of playing in the Champions League. Balancing football and academics, Grgic values discipline and mental strength while fostering strong relationships with teammates. He remains focused on continuous improvement and is open to a potential loan to TSV Hartberg in the winter transfer window.
Leon Grgic: Rising Star in Graz Football
Leon Grgic is making waves in the football scene, and he approaches his journey with a refreshing sense of calm. This 18-year-old striker from SK Sturm is on the brink of greatness, and we caught up with him to discuss his idols, aspirations, and daily life as he navigates the world of top-tier football.
A Promising Future Ahead
Since scoring a remarkable double against WSG Tirol, Leon Grgic has become a household name among Graz football enthusiasts. His impressive performance extends beyond the Bundesliga, as the young talent has netted over four goals for Sturm’s second team this season, and he has also shone in the Youth League with another four goals. A recent highlight for the striker was playing a key role in the team’s victory against Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Youth League.
“The entire squad is incredibly motivated since it’s our first experience on the international stage,” Grgic shares with enthusiasm. “In our opening match against Brest, it was tough to gauge our standing. Competing against top clubs like BVB and securing a win in such a thrilling match is truly special.”
While Grgic is eager to accumulate points with Sturm II, he trains regularly with the professional squad, fueling his ambition to join them on the pitch. However, there are discussions about potentially loaning him to league rival TSV Hartberg in the upcoming winter transfer window, as confirmed by Sturm’s managing director, Thomas Tebbich.
Chasing his childhood dreams of playing and winning the Champions League is at the forefront of Grgic’s mind. “I understand it’s a tough journey, but I believe in the possibilities that football offers. My focus is on continuous improvement and hard work; I trust it will pay off in the end.” His rapport with Sturm’s coach Christian Ilzer and fellow forwards Mika Biereth and Seedy Jatta is particularly strong. “People often assume strikers compete against each other, but that’s far from our reality. We genuinely support one another,” he emphasizes.
In addition to Cristiano Ronaldo and Erling Haaland, Grgic looks up to other notable players. “Mario Haas, my coach during the U16s, taught me an immense amount. I admired his incredible goal-scoring abilities. Although I never trained with Rasmus Højlund, I was always impressed by his talent and have followed his career closely,” he reflects.
To emulate his role models, Grgic emphasizes discipline and mental resilience. Balancing football with academics, he aims to complete his Matura at BORG Monsberger in the next year and a half. “My schedule can be unpredictable; if an opportunity arises with the first team, I often find out on short notice. Flexibility is essential,” he notes. Currently, he sacrifices elaborate hobbies and social outings to focus on recovery and performance. “I mostly spend my downtime with my girlfriend and family, who play a significant role in helping me relax,” he concludes.