Aston Villa youngster Kosta Nedeljkovic discusses what his ambitions are at Villa Park stating the transfer was a ‘dream move’.
Perhaps a forgotten player by many of the Villa Park faithful until the summer, Nedeljkovic is now preparing for the 2024/25 campaign after spending last season out on loan.
Unai Emery signed the right-back last summer from Serbian side Red Star Belgrade but sent the 18-year-old straight back out on loan to his former club.
Here, the defender made multiple first-team appearances, including a start against Man City in the Champions League.
Now back with the Villa squad, Nedeljkovic has discussed what his ambitions are at the club and how he has adapted.
Kosta Nedeljkovic ‘not scared’ of the Premier League
For many, moving country at such a young age can be a difficult task, especially with the pressure the Premier League puts on footballers.
However, as he prepares for the upcoming campaign, Nedeljkovic believes that he is preparing well for the challenge that faces him in the coming weeks.
He said: “Yes, it was a dream. The Premier League, for me, is the best. There are many leagues in the world but the Premier League is the one everyone knows and watches on TV.”
He later added: “We have a plan and it’s very important for me to work with this boss. Unai is one of the best coaches in the world. I’m 18 years old and at my age to be training and playing games for him is very good – it’s a dream.
“I’m not scared because I know that, yes I’m from Serbia, but I’m coming to a new family. I have good friends here and I’ve only been here for three weeks. I know after three or four months it will be much better for me and my family.
“People in the club have accepted us like we’re in Serbia. I know that football is about sacrifices and that you must make them. After 10-15 years, you will have a good life but you must make sacrifices every day. You need to work hard on the training ground and play good.”
Read more: Every key date for the 2024/25 campaign.
Kosta Nedeljkovic will be an excellent squad player this season
While he is unlikely to get many starts in the upcoming season, Nedeljkovic will likely play a role in the squad.
The right-back may only be used as a backup, but his experience at such a young age could prove to be vital.
Despite all the squad’s success, few have experienced Champions League football. This could be where the right-back provides his worth as he develops into a top defender.
