Soccer star and fitness fanatic: Ivan Novoselec's journey

Ivan Novoselec is a player for Istiklol Dushanbe. Soccer is not the only sport that deeply interests the Croatian. He is in the gym more often than on the field, making it easy to mistake him for a bodybuilder.

The top-pinned photo on Ivan Novoselec's Instagram profile shows him with Cristiano Ronaldo. The Croatian was responsible for marking the Portuguese player, and they met on the field during a group stage match of the Asian Champions League. Istiklol Dushanbe first lost to Al-Nassr 3-1 away, but later drew 1-1 at home.

Ivan Novoselec joined the club from Tajikistan before the current season. The defender previously tried his luck in his homeland of Croatia and Slovenia.

Recently, Ivan Novoselec gained attention for winning the Tajikistan Championship. While the competition may not be the highest level, winning it grants a ticket to the Asian Champions League. Ivan Novoselec celebrated by showcasing his traditionally impressive musculature.

The Croatian spends even more time in the gym than on the field. Ivan Novoselec is interested in combat sports and bodybuilding. Meeting the athlete outside of soccer matches or training sessions might lead one to mistake him for a bodybuilder.

Opposing strikers find strength duels with Ivan Novoselec unpleasant. They often avoid body-to-body confrontations with the Croatian because these can be painful experiences.

Ivan Novoselec tries to infect his teammates with his passion for strength training. None of them can even come close to matching the Croatian's musculature. The top honor goes unquestionably to the player from the Balkans.