After making a name for himself as a powerful goalscorer in England, Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic has started a new journey in the Middle East. Following a successful period in Saudi Arabia with Al Hilal, he now plays for Al Rayyan in Qatar. In a recent chat, Mitrovic shared his thoughts on this new phase of his career, looked back on his time with Newcastle and Fulham, and discussed the Serbian national team.
Mitrovic’s move to Qatar was driven by a desire for a new challenge and the ambition shown by his new club, Al Rayyan. He explained that he was impressed by the club’s project and their vision for the future. He also highlighted his positive first impressions of life in Qatar, describing it as calmer and praising the excellent training facilities. Now in his prime, he hopes his experience can help the team, especially the younger players, and end the club’s long wait for a trophy.
🇶🇦 A New Challenge at Al Rayyan
Aleksandar Mitrovic explained that his decision to join Al Rayyan was influenced by many factors. “I came to a club that has big potential, wants to grow and win trophies,” he said. He was attracted by the vision of the people at the club and hopes they can achieve great things together. Comparing life in Qatar to his time in Saudi Arabia, he noted that it is “a little bit calmer, with less traffic.” He is particularly impressed with the club’s “amazing” facilities and believes they have everything needed to succeed. His main goal is to score goals and help Al Rayyan win its first trophy in nearly eight years.
❤️ Fond Memories of English Football
Reflecting on his eight years in England, Mitrovic spoke fondly of his time at Newcastle and Fulham. He considers Newcastle his “first love in football,” partly because their black-and-white shirts reminded him of the team he supported in Serbia. He cherished the passionate support from the fans, for whom football is “almost like a religion.” Although he joined the club at a young age, he built a strong connection with the supporters. Mitrovic also showed great loyalty to both clubs by staying with them even when they were relegated to a lower division. He explained, “When you get relegated, you feel kind of guilty… I always wanted to make it right and bring Newcastle and then Fulham back.”
🤝 Praise for a Special Manager
Mitrovic shared his deep respect for his former Fulham manager, Marco Silva, whom he considers a friend as well as a coach. “For me, he’s one of the best managers I’ve ever had the privilege to work with,” he stated, praising Silva’s skills in tactics and man-management. The two still talk regularly about football and life. Mitrovic believes Silva has the quality to manage one of Europe’s top clubs, such as Liverpool, Chelsea, or Manchester United, and hopes he will soon get an opportunity to compete for major titles like the Champions League.
🇷🇸 Hopes for the Serbian National Team
Speaking about the Serbian national team, Mitrovic acknowledged their tough path ahead in qualifying for the World Cup. “We dropped some points where we shouldn’t have,” he admitted, but he remains hopeful. “If we have at least a small chance, we have to fight.” He also spoke respectfully about the team’s former coach, Dragan Stojkovic, who recently resigned. He credited Stojkovic for leading the team to two World Cups and the Euros, saying, “We’re thankful for everything he did.” Looking ahead, Mitrovic is optimistic about Serbia’s future, noting the squad has many talented young players.
