John Mousinho has opened up on the reasons behind Adrian Segecic’s surprising decision to switch international allegiance to Croatia.
The Portsmouth FC attacker, who has scored six goals in 34 appearances since arriving at Fratton Park in June 2025, made headlines after opting to represent Croatia despite previously progressing through Australia national football teamyouth ranks.
Segecic has spent the international break training with Croatia’s Under-21 squad, led by Ivica Olić, with former Pompey star Niko Kranjčar also part of the coaching staff. He is now in contention to make his debut in a Euro Under-21 Championship qualifier against Turkey.
Mousinho revealed the 21-year-old had discussed the decision with him beforehand, pointing to frustration during recent call-ups with Australia as a key factor. Despite being selected while in strong form, Segecic failed to feature and remained an unused substitute, which appears to have influenced his thinking.
The Portsmouth boss believes the move offers opportunity on both sides, highlighting Croatia’s pedigree as a footballing nation while also acknowledging Australia’s continued growth on the international stage. Ultimately, Mousinho stressed it was the player’s call.
He said Segecic had carefully weighed his options and deserved the chance to play international football, adding that reduced travel with Croatia could also benefit the club.
Segecic, whose family roots lie in Croatia, recently expressed a strong emotional pull toward representing the country, describing it as his homeland.
Croatia currently sit just behind group leaders Turkey in their Euro Under-21 qualifying group and will host them in a crucial clash in Zagreb, with Segecic now on the verge of a new international chapter.
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