Tonight, Mario Šoštarić will face Sweden – and a coach who means far more to him than just an opponent on the other bench. At club level, Michael Apelgren has become a defining figure in his career, shaping both his confidence and his game.
“When somebody trusts you, I want to keep on fighting for him every day,” Šoštarić says in an exclusive interview with GoHandball.
In elite handball, the relationship between player and coach can often be reduced to tactics, minutes, and results. For Mario Šoštarić, however, the bond with Michael Apelgren runs deeper than that. At Pick Szeged, Apelgren has created an environment where belief, calmness, and trust are just as important as systems and structures.
“Amazing,” Šoštarić says when describing their relationship. “How he treats me and all of us – it’s a big help for us as a club. He brings a lot of good things: calmness, positivity, belief in the players. I am really thankful to him for that.”
That trust has had a direct impact on Šoštarić’s performances. Feeling understood and backed by his coach has allowed him to play with freedom – and responsibility.
“When somebody trusts you, I want to keep on fighting for him every day,” he explains.
Calls Apelgren a “perfect fit”
The fit between coach and player has been seamless. Apelgren’s philosophy aligns with Šoštarić’s playing style, making their partnership feel natural rather than forced.
“He is a perfect fit for Szeged, perfect fit for me and my style of playing,” Šoštarić says. “I’m happy we have a coach like Micke in our team.”
But admiration will be briefly set aside tonight. When Croatia face Sweden, Apelgren will be on the opposite sideline – and Šoštarić knows that friendship and gratitude cannot soften the competitive edge.
“Oh yes,” he says with a smile when asked if he still wants to beat him. “We’re going to be different rivals in that game.”
Apelgren responds in similar fashion
And Michael Apelgren himself was quick to respond to the kind words from Šoštarić:
“We have a very strong relationship. He’s someone I really like a lot, and we’ve shared some fantastic experiences together. I rely on him a great deal,” Apelgren says.
When GoHandball later relayed in full what Šoštarić had said about him to the national team head coach, it was clear that the words were appreciated.
“Of course, hearing those things makes me happy and really warms my heart. And I feel exactly the same way about him.”
Šoštarić is well aware of the challenge ahead. Sweden, playing on home soil, carry both pressure and expectations – and a squad capable of going all the way.
“They have a lot of pressure, but they are one of the favourites for the finals,” he says.
For Croatia, the match is both a test and an opportunity.
“It’s going to be an amazing opponent for us, to see where we are,” Šoštarić adds. “A match against the host is always special. I love to play these kinds of games. I love to surprise.”