While the European soccer market is „on fire“ with the figures swirling around young talents, a new generation is maturing on the auxiliary fields south of the Marakana, threatening to shatter all club records. The series „It's Who You Play With“ revealed to the world what the scouts of the biggest clubs have known for a long time: Red Star has a „class of 2007“ in its ranks that hasn't been seen in decades. Vasilije Kostov and Adem Avdić are currently the brightest pearls in the crown of the red-and-white academy, and their story is a real lesson for every young soccer player.
Record Holders: From Maksimović to Kostov
Do you remember the era when players born in 1984 ruled football? Today, the 2007 generation is spoken of with the same awe. We've already witnessed the brilliance of Veljko Milosavljević and Andrija Maksimović, lads who have become the benchmark for transfer fees in Serbian football. However, the wave doesn't stop there. Although some, like Strahinja Stojković (Saint-Étienne) and Andrej Bačanin (Basel), left the nest too early, their places have been filled by players who, at 17, play football with a maturity that surpasses many veterans.
Vasilije Kostov has become Dejan Stanković's „utility player“ this season. He became the youngest scorer in the history of eternal derbies, as well as the youngest scorer for Crvena zvezda in European competitions. He is not just a talent; he is the engine of the team, without whom the first team's play would not be the same.
The path from denial to comparison with legends
Interestingly, Kostov's start wasn't a bed of roses. As legendary Nenad Milijaš reveals, when Vaso first joined the senior team, there was a lot of doubt. Even experienced coaches said, „maybe this isn't it.“ However, Milijaš, who has seen hundreds of talents, didn't give up. He believed in the boy who „knows how to carry the game even when it's tough.“.
Today, the comparisons are striking. Milijaš points out that Kostov, with his versatility in the „six,“ „eight,“ and „ten“ positions, is irresistibly reminiscent of Dejan Stanković in his prime. On the other hand, Adem Avdić, who returned after a serious knee surgery and an 18-month break, has earned the nickname „Zvezda's Marcelo.“ His battle with injury and swift return to elite football show that mental strength is as important as technique.
Tip for young players: Character over talent
For all members of the Next Football Stars platform, the story of Kostov and Avdić carries three key messages that can change your career:
1. Don't be afraid of others' doubts
If the coaches doubted Kostov just a few months ago, imagine how much they will doubt you. The key is in the work and faith of those who support you. Be prepared to „survive“ criticism for the first month in order to become heroes later.
2. Leverage the support of experienced leaders
Kostov and Avdić both emphasize the enormous influence that stars like Rade Krunić and Marko Arnautović have on them. Young players must be „sponges,“ absorbing every piece of advice from their elders. Football is learned on the field, but a career is built through conversations in the locker room.
3. Your digital footprint and visibility are your ticket
Kostov became world-famous the moment his Eurogoal against Porto went viral through digital channels. You don't have to wait for a Champions League match to be seen. Every move, goal, or assist on your profile can be that „X factor“ that will make a scout write down your name.
Conclusion: Crvena zvezda's future is already here
Through the series „It Matters Who You Play With,“ Red Star has shown that success is achieved through unity. Avdić, Kostov, Васиlić, and Zarić are not just teammates; they are a family that pushes each other forward. Their goal is clear: a place in the sun of European football.
For those of you who dream similar dreams, the recipe is clear: work hard, be patient, and don't let injuries or doubts stop you. Just like these guys, build your story every day. Football Europe is watching you, and your digital profile is your first opportunity to say: „I'm here and ready for big things!“
