Andrija Maksimović (foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
Crvena Zvezda's 17-year-old starlet Andrija Maksimović will make his Champions League debut against Inter Milan, confirmed by Zvezdan Terzić.
Andrija Maksimović, the 17-year-old prodigy of Crvena Zvezda, will make his Champions League debut against Inter Milan in the second round of the group stage, as confirmed by Zvezdan Terzić, the general director of the Serbian champions.
Nicknamed “Mesi,” Maksimović dazzled fans during the 174th Eternal Derby, where Zvezda dominated with a 4-0 win. He provided an assist and made several brilliant plays, earning his spot in the starting lineup for Zvezda's Champions League campaign.
Speaking to L’Interista, Terzić expressed his expectations for the talented youngster:
"I can say that tomorrow, the super-talented Andrija Maksimović, a 17-year-old boy, will play his first Champions League match. I believe the Italian football world will be impressed by his talent," Terzić said.
The decision now rests with coach Vladan Milojević on whether Maksimović will start the match against the reigning Italian champions, who are favorites for this game and one of the top contenders to win the Champions League this season.
Inter Milan drew their first match of the group stage with Manchester City (0-0), and Terzić acknowledged their strength:
"Honestly, Inter is the absolute favorite. They are the third favorite to win this edition of the Champions League. At home, they are favorites against any European team. Of course, from a sporting perspective, we hope for a good result, and we will do everything to make Inter sweat if they want to beat us."