Marko Guduric on Joining Olimpia Milano: “One of the Most Well-Organized Clubs in Europe”

In a recent interview on X&O’s CHAT, Marko Guduric, one of Olimpia Milano’s marquee signings this summer, shared his thoughts on joining the Italian powerhouse and reflected on his departure from Fenerbahce, just months after winning the EuroLeague title. “Milano is one of the most well-organized clubs in Europe,” Guduric began. “Melli told me the same — he’s played for both Fenerbahce and Milano. But also our guys: Micov, Nedovic, Maki [Macvan], even Mirotic — they all said the same thing. The level of organization and professionalism is really high.”

The Serbian guard, who is currently preparing to lead Serbia at EuroBasket, also opened up about the process that led to his exit from Istanbul — a decision made long before the EuroLeague triumph. “How did I decide to leave Fenerbahce? It’s a long story. It started back in January with some early talks. I wanted to stay — after seven or eight years, that’s normal. It was like family. My best moments are tied to Istanbul and the club. But as the negotiations went on, things didn’t go the way I had hoped. Sometimes in life, you don’t appreciate certain things — you take them for granted.”

“I waited for the playoffs. Even when we made the Final Four, I hadn’t signed with anyone. I didn’t expect anything to change, whether we won or lost. Winning and playing well wouldn’t have changed the situation. And in fact, it didn’t. I liked the idea of a new opportunity. Fenerbahce had become my comfort zone, but it’s good to step out of that — it’s the only way to grow. I can’t wait to begin this new adventure. Everything happens for a reason, and this is what was meant to happen for me.”

When asked about his goals with Olimpia Milano, Guduric was both ambitious and realistic:
“Winning at least one trophy or reaching the playoffs would be a success. We have an interesting roster. The club has a serious plan and is investing heavily. But in recent years, the results haven’t come — even though they made the Final Four three or four years ago, I don’t remember exactly. And the year after, they lost a Game 5 to Efes, who went on to win. We’ll see how it goes. Hopefully we stay healthy — that’s the top priority.”

Guduric’s arrival brings not only elite experience but also a winning mentality to a Milano squad looking to return to Europe’s elite.