Sassuolo defender Tarik Muharemovic displayed graciousness following Bosnia’s World Cup playoff triumph over Italy. He offered kind words for the nation where he has built his club career, even as he celebrated the realization of a lifelong dream for his home country.
Speaking to Swiss Italian channel RSI immediately after the dramatic penalty shootout win, Muharemovic carefully navigated the emotional complexities of eliminating a country for which he clearly holds genuine affection.
“My dream was to play at the World Cup with Bosnia, the greatest dream for all of us,” he shared.
“All my respect goes to Italy, my friends and brothers there.”
Bosnia Star Muharemovic: ‘I’m Very Happy in Italy, Never Lost Respect’
He was also keen to clarify comments from a previous interview that had reportedly been misinterpreted.
“I hope my words were not taken badly, because I have many friends and brothers there. I am very happy in Italy. I have never lost respect, I know where I come from and that I am humble. Italy is always in my heart.”
Regarding the match itself, Muharemovic acknowledged how challenging the Azzurri made things, despite playing with ten men for the majority of the contest following Bastoni’s red card.
“They tried everything, even with one fewer player, and it was not easy to hold on for 120 minutes. I feel sorry for them.”
However, his pride in Bosnia’s achievement was unmistakable.
“Bosnia is back and making itself known, this is only the beginning. We can show much more.”
With the World Cup now on the horizon, his message was simple: “We are ready. Now we celebrate, then we think about the World Cup.”