I really don't see where the problem is. First I started with PPL, did that, than started an fATPL course(the theory) which I have to pass now(14 subjects), afther that i'll start with flight training.
Read about fATPL -- JAR-FCL1, section J, -JAR-FCL 1.465, JAR-FCL 1.470.
and no
, you don't have to have IR/ME+CPL+MCC for ATPL theory, check fpz.hr, that's the college in Croatia where student's do atpl theory and PPL. if they wish they can continue for CPL IR/ME but on their own expense. fATPL and PPL is for free(paied by the college)
JAR-FCL 1.050,
---(3) Kandidatu koji je položio teorijske ispite za ATPL(A), isti će
se priznati za izdavanje PPL(A), CPL(A) i IR(A)---this is on croatian language.
trans---candidate who has passed theoretical exams for ATPL doesen't has to do PPL CPL IR theory.
but please stick to the subject(future pilot demand)