Arnautovic's Message to Stocker: "Follow my heart's rhythm"
Marko Arnautović Chases Austrian National Team Goal Record in Belgrade
Marko Arnautović, the Austrian national team's all-time appearance leader, is currently in Belgrade, Serbia, where his heart beats, playing for Red Star Belgrade. The striker is on a mission to surpass Toni Polster's record of 44 goals for Austria.
Arnautović, who was born to a Serbian father and an Austrian mother, recently transferred to Red Star Belgrade as a free agent in July 2025. His performance at the club level could impact his selection and effectiveness for the national team.
Austria's football team has not made a World Cup appearance since 1998, but Arnautović and Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker share a common goal: to see Austria qualify for the World Cup next year.
During a meeting at the Austrian Residence in Belgrade, Stocker honoured Arnautović for his contributions to sports in Austria and expressed his support for the player's sporting and personal endeavours. Arnautović, in turn, emphasized his commitment to representing Austria both on and off the pitch.
While the possibility of breaking Polster's record is a topic of interest, Arnautović diplomatically avoided discussing it during his meeting with Stocker. However, given his active status and continuous involvement with the national team, Arnautović certainly has the potential to surpass Polster's record.
Arnautović currently trails Polster by just three goals. Achieving this milestone would be a significant achievement for the player, but it would depend on his form and the opportunities he receives in upcoming matches.
In addition to his football career, Arnautović's daughters are professionally engaged in show jumping and need to maintain their high level in Italy. His wife and daughters will stay in Italy for the time being, deciding later if they will move to Serbia partially or completely.
During their meeting, Stocker and Arnautović enjoyed a drink of Arnautovic Premium Gin, a testament to the player's entrepreneurial spirit. Despite his connection to Serbia, Arnautović denies that it means he is no longer Austrian.
As Arnautović continues his pursuit of Polster's record, Austrian football fans eagerly await the day when he will become the all-time leading goal scorer for the national team.
In the midst of his mission to surpass Toni Polster's goal record for Austria, Marko Arnautović, a striker currently playing for Red Star Belgrade in European leagues, may find his club-level performance influencing his selection and effectiveness for the national team. Following his diplomatic avoidance of discussing the record during a meeting, Arnautović's potential to break Polster's record lies in his form and the opportunities presented in upcoming matches.
