Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrović reveals he was close to joining Roma and shares his thoughts on compatriots Dusan Vlahovic and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.
The Serbia international has released an interview with La Gazzetta Dello Sport, talking of a potential future transfer to Italy and Serie A stars Vlahovic and Milinkovic-Savic who will join him at the World Cup next month.
“Dusan and I are in sync, we play well together and help each other, as CT Stojkovic wants. Hopefully, we’ll have a great World Cup,” the 28-year-old said.
Vlahovic and Mitrovic’s Serbia have been drawn with Brazil, Switzerland and Cameroon in Group G at the World Cup.
The Juventus forward has had up and downs in the opening stages of the campaign and despite his seven goals in 13 appearances, he often looked irritable and frustrated on the pitch. The ex-Fiorentina striker scored the winner in Saturday’s derby against Torino.
“It was a great goal, typical of the great striker he is. He had two chances and scored a goal,” noted Mitrovic.
“It was nice to see five compatriots of mine playing in the Turin derby, I usually follow Serie A. There are many Serbian players.
“In the past, I was close to Roma. I feel well in England, but in the future, never say never. Aside from Roma, I like Napoli and their fans.”
Mitrovic was asked his thoughts on Vlahovic and whether he believes his compatriot would score as many goals as Erling Haaland if he were a Manchester City player.
“Surely, more than those he is scoring at Juventus, but I don’t know if he’d manage the same. Haaland has already scored 15 goals in the Premier League. Dusan is a top player, young but very strong already. Surely, he and Haaland will be the hitmen of the next decade.
“Dusan works so much in training, he is never satisfied. If he keeps this mentality, and I am sure it will never change, he will improve even more.”
Serbia boss Stojkovic said last week that Juventus should sign Milinkovic-Savic from Lazio to further raise the bar in midfield and Mitrovic agrees.
“He is the best midfielder in Serie A, Juventus would need someone like him. Vlahovic, Milik and Kostic would score even more goals by playing with him.”