Ivica Olić reached his 100th international appearance for Croatia on 16 November 2014, marking a decade-spanning career as a striker. Born in Davor in 1979, he developed a reputation for extreme work rate while operating across European leagues, most notably within the German Bundesliga and through his significant contributions to the Russian Premier League with CSKA Moscow.
Early Career and Domestic Success
Olić began his professional path at NK Marsonia in 1996. After a brief, unproductive tenure at Hertha BSC, he returned to Marsonia, securing promotion to the top flight. His domestic impact intensified during the 2000–01 season when he netted 17 goals in 29 games. Subsequent stints at NK Zagreb and Dinamo Zagreb saw him dominate the Croatian First League, scoring 21 and 16 goals respectively in successive seasons.
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Moving to CSKA Moscow in 2003, Olić solidified his status as a prolific striker. He claimed the Russian Premier League title three times, in 2003, 2005, and 2006. His trophy cabinet in Russia also expanded with two Russian Cup victories and two Russian Super Cup wins. His service to the club was formally recognized by the Russian Federation with the Order of Friendship.
Bundesliga Impacts
In 2007, Olić joined Hamburger SV to assist in their fight against relegation, eventually helping the club secure a seventh-place finish. In 2009, he moved to Bayern Munich, where he featured in two UEFA Champions League finals in 2010 and 2012. He later represented VfL Wolfsburg, where he finished the 2012–13 season as the first-choice striker with 15 goals and 6 assists before concluding his playing career at 1860 Munich.
International Representation and Coaching
Following his retirement from international play in 2015, he transitioned into coaching. In 2017, he joined the national team staff under head coach Zlatko Dalić, contributing to the team's path to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final. He also held a brief coaching role at CSKA Moscow.
Fast facts
- Born: 1979, Davor, Croatia
- Primary Position: Striker
- Croatian Footballer of the Year: 2009, 2010
- International caps: 100
- Club debut: NK Marsonia, 1996
- Coaching career start: 2017
- Citizenship: Croatia and Yugoslavia
Questions readers ask
Which major clubs did Ivica Olić play for in Germany?
He played for Hertha BSC, Hamburger SV, Bayern Munich, VfL Wolfsburg, and 1860 Munich.
What is his current role in football?
He works as an association football coach and assistant coach for the Croatia national team.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player and association football coach
