Milinkovic Savic

Sergej Milinković-Savić, often referred to simply as SMS, is a Serbian professional footballer who currently plays as a midfielder for Al-Hilal in the Saudi Professional League. His journey from a promising youth player to a sought-after star has been marked by impressive performances and a unique blend of physical prowess and technical skill.

Born in Spain in 1995 to Serbian parents, Milinković-Savić began his professional career with Vojvodina in Serbia. His talent quickly became apparent, attracting the attention of European scouts. He subsequently moved to Genk in Belgium, where he continued to develop and hone his skills before securing a transfer to Lazio in 2015.

It was in Rome with Lazio where Milinković-Savić truly cemented his reputation as one of the most complete midfielders in Europe. Over eight seasons, he became a pivotal figure in the team, contributing significantly to their success. His imposing physical presence, standing at 6’3″, allowed him to dominate aerial duels and shield the defense effectively. However, his game extended far beyond just physicality. He possessed excellent close control, vision, and passing range, enabling him to dictate the tempo of matches and create scoring opportunities for his teammates.

Milinković-Savić’s goal-scoring record from midfield was particularly noteworthy. He consistently found the back of the net with well-timed runs into the box and powerful strikes from outside the area. His ability to contribute defensively, create offensively, and score goals made him an incredibly valuable asset for Lazio.

Throughout his time in Serie A, Milinković-Savić consistently earned high praise from coaches, pundits, and fellow players. He was often compared to some of the greatest midfielders in the game, and his performances fueled speculation about potential moves to some of Europe’s biggest clubs. However, he remained loyal to Lazio for many years, becoming a fan favorite and a symbol of the club’s ambition.

Internationally, Milinković-Savić represents Serbia. After representing his country at youth levels, he became a regular fixture in the senior squad, showcasing his talent on the international stage. He has been a key player for Serbia in both World Cup and European Championship qualifying campaigns.

In the summer of 2023, Milinković-Savić embarked on a new chapter in his career, joining Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia. This move marked a significant shift in the landscape of football, as more and more established players chose to compete in the rapidly growing Saudi Professional League. While the decision to move to Saudi Arabia raised eyebrows among some, it presented Milinković-Savić with a new challenge and the opportunity to play a leading role in the development of football in the region.

Regardless of where he plays, Sergej Milinković-Savić has established himself as a highly skilled and versatile midfielder. His combination of physical attributes, technical abilities, and tactical awareness makes him a formidable opponent and a valuable asset to any team. His legacy as a Lazio legend is secure, and his future in football, wherever it may lead, remains full of potential.