He scored the goal that took Serbia to the World Cup: He's been without a club for three years, you won't believe how he spends his time today
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Aleksandar Prijović, who scored the goal that sent Serbia to the 2018 World Cup, has been without a club for three years.
- The striker had a successful career, scoring 55 goals in 86 appearances for PAOK and earning a 10 million euro transfer to Saudi club Al-Ittihad.
- Now 36, Prijović appears to be enjoying his unofficial retirement, sharing photos of himself relaxing.
Aleksandar Prijović, the Serbian footballer whose goal secured his nation's qualification for the 2018 World Cup, has been inactive for three years and is now 36 years old. His career highlight was scoring the decisive goal against Georgia in October 2017, propelling Serbia to the tournament in Russia.
Prijović's impressive performances, particularly for Greek club PAOK where he scored 55 goals in 86 matches, led to a lucrative 10 million euro transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad. There, he continued his scoring form, netting 22 goals in 58 appearances. He was also linked with a move to Red Star Belgrade.
After his stint in Saudi Arabia, Prijović moved to Western United in Australia, spending two years there before leaving in 2023. Since then, he has not been affiliated with any club. While he has not officially announced his retirement, his prolonged absence from the game suggests his playing days are likely over.
Prijović seems content with his current situation, recently sharing images on social media showing him relaxing with a cigar. It is presumed that his earnings, particularly from his time in Saudi Arabia, have provided him with financial comfort to enjoy this unofficial retirement.
Originally published by Večernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.