Serbian striker Dejan Joveljić is making waves in the United States, netting six goals in 13 matches for Sporting Kansas City. His performance has caught the attention of American media.

From Red Star Belgrade to the US

Speaking to Urban Pitch, Joveljić reflected on his journey from Red Star Belgrade. He joined the club at nine years old, living there independently from the age of 12 and completing his schooling. "I've talked to younger boys about this experience," he said. "I lived in Serbia from the age of 12, playing for the biggest club. Even in younger categories, if you lose a game, you feel immense pressure. Imagine the first team at Red Star. If you lose a couple of matches, you’re out, and it's hard to come back."

Joveljić believes his early relocation and independence helped him mature and prepare mentally for the next steps in his career.

A Passion for Billiards and an Unexpected Hobby

Joveljić had a unique passion for billiards from the age of 15 to 20, playing almost every day after his training sessions and winning amateur tournaments. However, an unexpected twist led him to discover a new hobby.

"When I was on loan in Belgium, there was a quarantine due to the pandemic," he explained. "I was stuck in an apartment, unsure of what to do. I decided to take chess lessons and German language classes. That's how I spent my time and fell in love with chess."

(Telegraf.rs)