Matija Popović (foto: Uradni Twitter profil kluba/zveze)
Matija Popović, one of Serbia's most promising young players, bids an emotional farewell to Partizan through a social media post featuring "Balada disidenata" by Beogradski Sindikat, hinting at the turbulence surrounding his departure.
Matija Popović, aged 18, has finally secured a new chapter in his football career. The highly-touted Serbian talent has inked a deal with Napoli after months of uncertainty across Europe.
The Italian champions wasted no time in loaning him out to Monza, but not before Popović delivered a heartfelt goodbye to Partizan Belgrade, the club where he honed his skills.
The split between Popović and Partizan was far from amicable. Harsh words were exchanged, and for several months, the young player was sidelined. His move only materialized after he turned 18 and his scholarship contract with the black and whites expired. Rumors swirled about his father demanding a hefty fee and leveraging the club.
After a six-month wait, Popović signed with Napoli, who immediately arranged his loan to Monza.
Popović's emotional farewell was posted on his TikTok profile. Accompanied by the track "Balada disidenata" by Beogradski Sindikat, he specifically highlighted the lyrics:
"I had to leave because I was a hindrance to someone, goodbye Belgrade, remember well what I said..." This post not only marked his departure from Partizan but also hinted at the complex circumstances that led to this new phase of his career.