Tough Beginnings to Glory: Milos Kerkez’s Journey to Football Stardom

Milos Kerkez’s journey began in the humble streets of Vrbas, Serbia, where football wasn’t just a game but a way of life. As a young boy, his passion was undeniable, and he was known to possess endless bursts of energy. He played local street football with blocks of stone as goalposts, and because he had so much energy, he needed tougher opponents to cool him off. Those opponents were mostly his big brothers, who never spared their firecracker little brother from hard tackles. Kerkez was always bursting with energy, making it hard for anyone to keep up with him. It wasn’t just his brothers—everyone wanted a piece of him, and he was just as eager to take on the challenge.

Preamble:

Kerkez’s older brothers, Marko and Rade, made sure he learned the game the hard way. They never went easy on him just because he was the youngest or the baby of the family. Tackles were rough, often sending young Milos tumbling to the ground. Cuts, scrapes, and even bleeding were part of the game and Milos Kerkez suffered from it.

These were no ordinary childhood matches in their Serbian hometown of Vrbas. The fierce battles between Milos and his brothers often turned the street into an impassable zone. On many occasions, cars would think twice before venturing down the road where the Kerkez boys played.

Despite the rough play, these early years were filled with joy and unforgettable memories. They shaped Milos into the fearless player he is today. We’ll tell you the story of a boy who, since childhood, learned resilience, skill, and determination on the streets of Vrbas—a foundation for his rise in football.

Now that Milos Kerkez is a name known in football, let’s dive deeper into his journey. This is the story of a boy from Vrbas, Serbia, who chose to represent Hungary instead of Serbia—a decision driven by the kindness of his childhood club. In return, he wanted to honor the country of that club. Kerkez’s goal is to redefine what it means to be an unconventional footballer. We hope his story sparks your love for reading football autobiographies and inspires you along the way.

Let’s take a trip through this gallery and see just how far Milos Kerkez has come—from being that kid who loved Ninja Turtles to the moment he made it big in football. Milos has truly come a long way from the boy who used to block the streets with his epic football battles!

Without further delay, let’s dive into the life and rise of Milos Kerkez—the athletic left-back powerhouse of Hungary.

Childhood Story:

Milos Kerkez was born on November 7, 2003, in Vrbas, Serbia and Montenegro. His parents, Sebastijan Zan Kerkez and Tijana Kerkez, raised him alongside his two brothers, Rade and Marko. Milos is the youngest of the three.

Sebastijan and Tijana played a big role in shaping their children’s love for the beautiful game. They encouraged Milos, Rade, and Marko to dream big and express themselves through football. That unwavering support has brought incredible success to the Kerkez household and turned Milos into a rising star and the family’s breadwinner. Let’s meet the amazing parents behind his journey.

Growing Up Years:

As a child, Milos Kerkez was bursting with energy. He always found ways to channel it through different activities. Before football took over his life, he loved climbing trees and practising parkour. This sport, where people move from point to point as quickly and efficiently as possible, perfectly matched his adventurous spirit. Even as he grew older, Milos kept that energetic personality. It’s the same high-energy character we see every time he steps onto the field.

Kerkez wasn’t the type of kid who caused trouble—he, like Denzel Dumfries, was full of energy, always looking for ways to channel it. Whether it was playing football, climbing trees, or practising parkour, he was constantly on the move, finding ways to burn off that boundless energy. He was a fun-loving kid, always finding ways to express himself, including through mimicking his cartoon heroes!

A Ninja Turtles Fan

When young Milos wasn’t playing football, climbing trees, or practising parkour, he was likely doing one of two things. First, he would be glued to his favourite Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cartoon series. In that series, Milos admired Leonardo’s leadership, Michelangelo’s playful spirit, Donatello’s intelligence, and Raphael’s toughness. At nine years old, he even asked his parents for a special cake themed after his beloved cartoon. As the youngest in the family, Milos was the baby of the house, an adored child who always brought joy to those around him.

The Farm Boy:

As a kid, when Milos Kerkez wasn’t watching Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles or playing football, he spent time on the family farm with his dad. On the farm, his main task was collecting chicken eggs. He was often surrounded by birds and bulls, which his father raised.

Milos loved farm life. He could spend entire days doing adventurous things with the family dogs, taking care of animals like ducks, and feeding the fish. As a child, he dreamed big. He wanted to own a farm much larger than his dad’s—a vast space filled with horses, dogs, cows, and every animal he could imagine.

Kerkez was a kid full of wild dreams. One of his biggest ideas was to build a lake and fill it with fish. It was a vision inspired by his dad, who once had the same dream. Now, as a professional footballer with the means to make it happen, Milos is turning that childhood dream into a reality. His plans for the lake are already underway!

Early Life (Football):

Milos Kerkez’s passion for football showed from a young age. We looked into whether his parents had a background in the sport, but found that his father didn’t play football professionally. However, Milos and his siblings spent hours playing in the garden, so much so that they could hardly be convinced to stop for dinner. Instead, they preferred kicking the ball around in the street, sometimes until it was dark.

The streets of Vrbas, a small town 30 miles north of Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, cannot forget him, even up to this day. Those street football games he played were anything but gentle, especially with his older brothers, Rade and Marko. They were tough on him, tackling hard and showing no mercy. Many times, Milos would hit the ground, his skin scraped and bleeding. Yet, he always got back up, driven by his passion for the game.

After those intense street matches, Milos would immerse himself in YouTube. He’d watch clip after clip of Roberto Carlos, his football idol. The Brazilian legend’s explosive runs and powerful left foot inspired Milos. Studying Carlos helped him shape his style as a left-back, planting the seeds for the player he is today. Football wasn’t just a game for Milos; it was a way of life, forged in the streets and fueled by dreams of greatness.

Family Background:

Kerkez comes from a warm, hardworking middle-class family with a deep love for farming. Their success as a household was built on the dedication and tireless efforts of his parents, Tijana and Sebastijan. Did you know? Sebastijan, his dad, wasn’t just a farmer—he wore many hats. He was a rancher, shepherd, poultry farmer, dairy farmer, and even a horse breeder.

Despite the demanding nature of farm life, Sebastijan always made time to support Milos in his football journey. Whether it meant driving him to training sessions or cheering him on during matches, he ensured Milos had everything he needed to pursue his dreams. For young Milos, the farm wasn’t just a place of work; it was a playground filled with animals and adventures that shaped his character.

Thanks to the strong foundation his parents provided, Milos was able to combine his love for football with the values of hard work and determination instilled in him from a young age. One thing that stands out about the Kerkez family is how tightly-knit they are. Milos never misses a chance to express his love for his mother’s cooking. His favourite moments are always during family get-togethers, where he gets to indulge in his mom’s Serbian delicacies—cevapi, grilled minced meat, kajmak (a creamy dairy dish), and other delicious, calorie-packed treats.

Besides farming, his Dad once did other jobs. When Sebastijan’s two sons, Milos and Marko Kerkez, played for Győri ETO FC, a Hungarian professional football club based in Győr, he kept a close eye on their progress from afar. At that time when 18-year-old Milos was in Hungary chasing his football dreams, his dad was living in Germany, working tirelessly in a chemical factory. Milos’s oldest brother, Rade, also worked there to support the family. Meanwhile, their mom, Tijana, managed three demanding jobs in the care sector.

Life wasn’t easy for the Kerkez family during those years, but they faced the challenges with determination and unity. They are especially grateful for the support of former Ipswich and Watford striker Tamás Priskin, who helped Milos settle into life at Győr. Priskin’s guidance made a big difference in easing the young footballer’s transition, ensuring Milos could focus on his game and continue building his path to success.

Milos Kerkez Family Origin:

A common question about Left back is about his roots and why he chose to play for Hungary instead of Serbia, despite being born in Vrbas. Vrbas is a small, culturally rich town in Serbia, home to a mix of Serbian, Hungarian, and other ethnic groups. The town is famous for its fertile land and strong agricultural heritage. Crops like cereals, sunflowers, and sugar beets thrive here. Located in the Vojvodina region, often called the “breadbasket of Serbia,” Vrbas sits near the Great Bačka Canal. This network of waterways supports farming, and we are not surprised that the Kerkez family are into agriculture.

Thanks to Miloš Kerkez, Vrbas now has a special connection to football. The region, part of the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina in northern Serbia, has proudly embraced Bournemouth. Fans across the area now wear the club’s kits, turning this corner of Serbia into a community of Cherries supporters. Whenever Miloš Kerkez visits home, everyone asks for jerseys. But what strikes him most is seeing kids glued to their phones or staying indoors playing video games. It saddens him because, over a decade ago, his childhood was different. He and his brothers spent every chance they had playing football outside. Miloš dreams of helping these kids rediscover the joy of football. That’s why he talked to his dad about building a training centre and grounds to inspire them to fall in love with the sport again.

Miloš Kerkez, the boy from Vrbas born on November 7, 2003, faced an important choice: play for Serbia or Hungary. He chose Hungary, the country of his grandmother. For Miloš, Hungary always came first when it came to football. His parents, Sebastijan Zan and Tijana Kerkez, fully supported his decision. There was no hesitation—both his father and Hungarian grandmother encouraged him to represent Hungary.

At just 14, Miloš made up his mind. When the time came, he wore Hungary’s colours and was named in Hungary’s squad for concluded UEFA Euro 2024. Serbia never reached out to him, but Hungary did when he was 15. They showed respect to both him and his family, a gesture Miloš will always cherish.

Ethnicity:

Miloš Kerkez’s ethnicity is a blend of Serbian roots and Hungarian heritage through his grandmother. Born in Vrbas, a culturally diverse town in Serbia, he grew up in a region where Serbian, Hungarian, and other ethnic groups coexist. This multicultural environment undoubtedly shaped his identity and language skills. Fluent in Serbian, Hungarian, English, and German, Miloš is a true polyglot, reflecting his diverse upbringing and adaptability.

While he doesn’t play for Serbia, his decision to represent Hungary doesn’t diminish his connection to Vrbas, his hometown. Instead, it emphasizes his unique story as someone who bridges multiple cultures and languages, making him a global citizen in the world of football.

Milos Kerkez Education:

Although football was the ultimate calling for Miloš Kerkez and his brothers, education held a special place in their family’s values. The Kerkez family believed in the importance of schooling as much as chasing dreams. Miloš, alongside his older brothers, attended the prestigious Grammar School “Žarko Zrenjanin,” located in Vrbas, Serbia. The academic journey of the Kerkez family also includes moments spent at the Gymnasium school, located in Palih boraca 9, Vrbas. For the belief of this great household, balancing education with their passions was a cornerstone of building a strong and successful future.

Early Career Life:

When Milos Kerkez began his football journey, he first played as a registered player for the nearby club, OFK Vrbas. His talent quickly stood out. At just 11 years old, he earned a move to Rapid Vienna after a successful trial. This Austrian professional club is based in the capital city, Vienna. Milos Kerkez spent five years at Rapid Vienna, honing his skills and growing as a player. He was later signed by Hódmezővásárhelyi Futball Club, based in Hódmezővásárhely, Csongrád County, Hungary. The club competes in the Nemzeti Bajnokság III – Southeast, the third tier of Hungarian football.

Path to Fame:

After progressing from Hódmezővásárhely, Milos Kerkez joined the football academy at Győr. He often reflects on his time there with deep gratitude. However, managing Milos at Győr wasn’t always straightforward, as his boundless energy and determination made him a unique challenge. Progressing from Hódmezővásárhely, Milos Kerkez joined Győr’s football academy. Each time, he thinks back with gratitude to the years in Győr. Truth be told… Young Milos Kerkez was a bundle of energy, not the easiest to handle, but full of unstoppable passion and potential.

Reflecting on Milos Kerkez’s boundless energy as a child, his father, Sébastien Kerkez, once shared with ETOGyőri ETO FC about how challenging it was to manage him. He expressed deep gratitude to the club for accepting Milos during that time. At ETO, Milos was treated with understanding and empathy, allowing him to grow not only as a footballer but also to mature into a more composed individual. However, before that transformation, Milos desperately needed someone to help channel his erratic energy into something constructive.

Milos Kerkez wasn’t always a defender. At first, he wasn’t happy when his coach moved him to the back because he loved playing midfield. But when he joined the senior team in Győr, they gave him a shot as a left-back, and it worked out. Fans and others at the club saw that he had the skills for that position. Over time, Milos began to enjoy it. He realized that left-back was the best position for him. As a kid, scoring goals from the midfield position brought him joy, but now his focus is on defense.

Even as a professional, Milos Kerkez needed the right people to guide him. He had all the energy of a hyper athlete, but he needed help channelling it maturely. Over time, with the right guidance, he transformed into a player who could apply emotional intelligence to his game and daily life. Many people played a role in Milos Kerkez’s transformation. It wasn’t just his coaches. Key figures like the club’s CEO Imre Soós, academy director Frigyes Tuboly, school director Zsolt Horváth, and technical director Ádám Nagy all contributed. Along with other coaches and teachers, they helped turn Milos from a passionate, hyperactive kid into a footballer with emotional control and brilliance—someone they believed had the potential to become one of their best.

The Maldini Call:

Did you know? Milos Kerkez received the best care from the Hungarian people and his Hungarian club (Győr), even more than he ever imagined. Because of that, he decided to play for Hungary’s national team instead of Serbia. This decision marked a turning point in his life. His talent began to shine, both nationally and internationally. Soon, top European clubs took notice, and among them, AC Milan reached out to him in a very special way.

It was Paolo Maldini, the legendary former player and now AC Milan’s sporting director, who personally called Milos Kerkez. The way AC Milan reached out to him was full of kindness. They didn’t just ask him to come to Milan—they went above and beyond. Maldini himself flew in a private plane to pick up Milos and see his parents. They, Milos, his Dad, Mum and Maldini travelled back to Milan together, making the experience even more special.

For young Milos, it was a dream come true to receive such kindness from a football legend like Paolo Maldini. A player he had admired on TV, watching countless YouTube videos to model his game after as a left-back. Milos’ transfer to AC Milan happened so quickly, with the January 2021 window closing soon. As Kerkez recalls:

“When a Legend like Maldini calls, you don’t think twice…”

Before joining Milan, Milos Kerkez had planned to stay in Hungary to focus on improving physically. But just two days before the January 2021 transfer window closed, Paolo Maldini personally called him and wanted to meet both Milos and his father, Sebastijan. Milos had made a promise to Győri ETO FC to honour the club and represent Hungary in the national team. Even though he was born in Serbia, he had discussed with his family the idea of playing for his grandmother’s country, and their opinion was unanimous.

Before departing for AC Milan, Milos Kerkez shared these heartfelt words for the key figures at Győri ETO FC who had a significant impact on his career:

“I would like to thank my coaches in Győr, especially Péter Stark and Sándor Csató, for guiding me and helping me find the position where I could achieve the most. At ETO, I became a better footballer, but more importantly, I grew as a person. I owe a lot to the time I spent with the adult team during the virus period. Being in the hotel for several weeks, learning from Tamás Priskin and his team, both on and off the field, was invaluable. The ETO family has become my second family, and I will never forget what I received here.”

Rising to Fame:

At just 17, with AC Milan sending a special plane and the legendary Paolo Maldini personally calling and visiting him, it was clear that Milos Kerkez had a lot of expectations resting on his shoulders. After joining the club, he was sent to the Milan U19 team, where he quickly stood out—not just for his lively and unrestrained teenage energy but for his dedication. Kerkez carried with him the lessons from his previous club, focusing on discipline during training. He even developed the habit of packing weights in his backpack every evening and doing laps on the training grounds, showing his commitment to improving.

Milos Kerkez admitted that training with the AC Milan first team was an overwhelming experience. When he first arrived, he found himself face-to-face with football giants like the legendary Zlatan Ibrahimović, the rising star Rafael Leão, and his future competitor, Théo Hernández. For the young player, it was an incredible honour to stand beside Zlatan, a footballing icon he had watched countless times on TV and admired like a god. The experience was surreal, and the sheer magnitude of the moment left a lasting impression on him.

For Milos Kerkez, training with AC Milan players felt like stepping into a dream. Just months ago, he had only seen these stars on TV, and now he was sharing the pitch with them. It was an unbelievable experience that left him in awe. What struck Milos the most was how down-to-earth his new teammates were. Players like Sandro Tonali, Ismaël Bennacer, Brahim Díaz, and Fikayo Tomori weren’t just exceptional footballers but genuinely kind individuals.

They all shared a close bond, forming friendships that extended beyond the pitch. This camaraderie wasn’t just professional; it was personal, and it played a big role in helping Milos feel at home. Their support made his integration into the team smoother, turning what could have been an intimidating transition into an exciting new chapter of his career.

Getting Help from His Competitor:

It’s rare to see a footballer willing to teach someone he’s competing with on the pitch. But Theo Hernández, with his humble nature, proved different. He was incredibly helpful to Milos Kerkez, generously teaching him the skills needed to be a great left-back. Theo showed Milos how to best use his speed, even though they were both vying for the same position. Confident in his abilities, Theo was always classy and free-spirited. In most teams, players competing for the same spot don’t become close. But with Theo and Milos, it was the opposite. Much credit goes to Theo, who never felt threatened and supported Milos instead.

Milos Kerkez understood his mission clearly: to prove himself worthy of wearing an AC Milan shirt. His goal was simple—to earn playing time and show coach Stefano Pioli that he deserved a spot on the team. In other words, he aimed to challenge Theo Hernández for the starting left-back position. It was a healthy competition, wasn’t it?

During his time in Italy, Kerkez grew significantly, especially in tactical understanding. However, he made the tough decision to move on. Despite his development, he remained in the shadow of the great Theo Hernández. Truth be told, Stefano Pioli didn’t provide him with enough opportunities to showcase his talent. So, in 2022, Milos took a bold step and left AC Milan to join AZ Alkmaar, where he could truly shine.

Life at AZ:

Dutch Eredivisie club AZ Alkmaar promised Milos Kerkez something he couldn’t resist—a chance to play in the senior team as a first-choice left-back. That was the main reason he accepted their offer in January 2022. To secure their new player, AZ Alkmaar paid AC Milan a significant fee of two million euros.

For Kerkez, it wasn’t just about the money; it was about opportunity. He wanted first-team football, and AZ Alkmaar felt like the perfect fit for his ambitions.

AZ Alkmaar is widely recognized in the Netherlands as a club dedicated to developing young talent. When Milos Kerkez first walked into their stadium, he was amazed by what he saw—his photos displayed throughout the club. It was a clear sign of how much they valued and respected him.

The warm welcome didn’t stop there. Everyone at the club made an effort to congratulate him—not just the professional staff and his new teammates, but even the doorman and the groundskeeper greeted him personally. It was an incredible environment that immediately felt like home.

During his time at AZ Alkmaar, Milos Kerkez wasn’t drawn to the quieter life in the small town of Alkmaar. Instead, he preferred the lively energy of Amsterdam. At just 19 years old, he admitted to himself that he still needed his parents around, and he saw nothing wrong with it—it felt natural for his age.

His father and mother agreed to move to Amsterdam with him, making it a fun and supportive arrangement. Milos and his dad, Sebastijan, especially enjoyed their time together, often bonding over long conversations about football. It was a time filled with growth and family connection.

The Approach to His Rise at AZ:

At AZ Alkmaar, Milos Kerkez kept a serious attitude. He wasn’t the type to seek attention in the dressing room or joke around excessively. Yet, his boundless energy from childhood was still very much a part of him—and he poured out that energy on the pitch.

At the club, he formed bonds with teammates like Peer Koopmeiners (brother of Teun Koopmeiners), rising star Tijjani Reijnders (who would later join AC Milan), and Mathew Ryan, the Australian goalkeeper. These connections shaped his experience at AZ and added to his growth as a player and person.

Milos Kerkez kept working hard, and his rapid development was clear when he became a regular at AZ Alkmaar. Luck played a part when the club sold his main competitor, former left-back Wijndal, to Ajax for ten million euros in the summer. This opened the door for Milos to step up.

He seized the opportunity, playing brilliantly and even helping his team beat top European sides like RB Leipzig. Milos transformed into a determined teenager and a professional who was always active on the pitch. He wasn’t afraid to challenge opponents, often colliding with them and showing his fierce determination to prove himself as a rising star in the left-back position.

Before Milos Kerkez achieved his meteoric rise and became known by football fans worldwide, he had dissipated his energy in some nasty brawls. His fiery temperament often led to confrontations on and off the pitch. However, through hard work, guidance from coaches, and his own self-awareness, Milos channelled that energy into becoming a stronger, more disciplined player.

Milos Kerkez became renowned for his lung-bursting runs towards the opposition’s byline, but he takes the most pride in his defensive abilities. He once said;

“Maybe people see how much I go forward and forget about my defending, but the first thing I’m good at is defending—one-on-one, in duels. Anything extra is a bonus because I have the energy to do it, so why not? For us as defenders, locking down the wingers is the best thing.”

When asked if any particular battle stood out to him, Kerkez’s answer revealed his unwavering mentality. He responded;

“I don’t care who is there. I just do my job.”

Milos Kerkez shared that he never cared who his opponent was. Even if it was someone like Thomas Müller coming at him, he would charge right at him without hesitation. He wouldn’t be intimidated by big names, not even Zlatan Ibrahimović. At AZ Alkmaar, his goal was always to be the best, and he worked tirelessly to become a top player. His impressive performances eventually made him the subject of numerous transfer speculations.

Beyond AZ:

Milos Kerkez played just one season with AZ Alkmaar before top clubs across Europe began showing interest in him. By 2022, he had already made a name for himself both at club level and with the Hungarian national team. His international recognition soared after Hungary achieved a remarkable victory, handing England their biggest home defeat since 1928 with a stunning 4-0 win over Gareth Southgate‘s side.

S.L. Benfica was the first to show interest in signing Milos Kerkez, but the Portuguese giants weren’t willing to meet AZ Alkmaar’s €20 million asking price. In the end, it was Premier League club AFC Bournemouth who secured his signature for an undisclosed fee.

When Milos Kerkez first arrived in England, he was just another name, an unknown talent adjusting to a new stage. But everything changed in his second season. He made a huge impact, delivering two stunning assists against Manchester City. For the first time, Milos dominated British newspaper headlines, becoming a hot topic in transfer speculation. It’s only a matter of time before a big club snatches him up, paving the way for him to become a household name. The rest, as they say, is history.

Personality:

Milos Kerkez is a true homebody who understands the value of taking time to unplug. When he visits Serbia for a holiday in the summer, he keeps it simple—just three or four days of pure relaxation. He enjoys spending time alone in a quiet house playing video games and sometimes, with a close friend, chopping wood, making fires, camping, and fishing, all while staying completely off his phone.

Kerkez believes it’s essential to have interests beyond football. “People want you to focus on football, but you need something else. When you do that, you come back even more motivated and energized to give your best on the pitch,” he explains. When asked about his love for adventures, he likened it to the way Erling Haaland approaches his downtime—embracing simplicity and reconnecting with nature.

Milos Kerkez shared that, like Erling Haaland, he enjoys returning to his roots to recharge. Haaland often posts updates from Norway during international breaks, fishing rod in hand, embracing his Viking spirit and love for the wilderness. Similarly, Kerkez loves being outdoors, venturing into the woods, and immersing himself in nature.

During the summer, Milos Kerkez often retreats to Vrbas, escaping the demands of daily life to do things that feel rare in today’s world. He spends time in the forest, chopping wood, making fires, camping, and fishing—all without a phone.

Kerkez would hunt or fish, roasting the catch of the day over an open fire, cleaning it, and enjoying it under the stars that same night. It’s a simple yet fulfilling escape that reflects his appreciation for the raw, untamed beauty of nature.

For Milos, this disconnect is essential. While people expect him to focus solely on football, he believes stepping away occasionally recharges him, helping him return to the field more energized and motivated.

Now, he dreams of building a new farm—much bigger than his current one. He envisions a space filled with horses, cows, dogs, and other animals, offering him a peaceful retreat. He also plans to create a lake stocked with fish, where he could spend entire days fishing. It’s an idea his father loves, and together, they’re already making plans to bring this vision to life.

Family Facts:

Sebastijan Zan Kerkez is a forward-thinking father dedicated to ensuring his son Milos gets the best career support. A graduate of Secondary Vocational School “4. July” in Vrbas, Sebastijan has enough knowledge to understand the intricacies of player career management. He collaborates closely with LIAN Sports Group, the agency that represents Milos and other top talents like Nikola Milenković, Italy’s Federico Chiesa, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Edouard Mendy. Starting in 2025, Milos, with the support and agreement of his family, switched his representation to Fali Ramadani’s agency, Lian Sports. Beyond football, Sebastijan and Milos share a mutual passion for farming and raising animals, a shared interest that reflects their close bond.

The Bond he Shares with Tijana:

Since childhood, one of Milos Kerkez’s dreams has been to give back to his parents, especially his mother, Tijana, who has always supported him with unwavering care and dedication. When his father, Sebastijan, worked in a chemical factory in Germany, Tijana took on three jobs in the care sector to help provide for the family. Despite the challenges, her love and sacrifice never wavered. Milos has always cherished his mother’s Serbian cooking, especially her delicious cevapi, grilled mincemeat, and kajmak. On his 18th birthday, even though Tijana was juggling multiple jobs and Milos hadn’t yet achieved his football breakthrough, she set everything aside to celebrate the special day with him.

Milos Kerkez’s Siblings:

Among Milos Kerkez’s two brothers, his eldest, Rade, stands out as his biggest fan. Rade’s bond with Milos is so strong that when they play FIFA together, he always picks Bournemouth to show his support. He eagerly anticipates Milos’s matches every week, and game days are the highlight of his week. Rade’s passion for his brother’s career is so intense that he once admitted he feels lost when Milos doesn’t play every few days.

Marko Kerkez, the immediate older brother of Milos, was born on June 26, 2000, in Vrbas, Serbia. Standing tall at 1.84 meters, he is slightly taller than Milos, who is 1.80 meters (5 ft 11 in). Interestingly, both brothers share a natural left foot and play as left-backs, making their similarities on the pitch quite unique.

While Milos has made rapid strides in his career, Marko has experienced a slower start. As of 2025, he represents FK Partizan, a well-known professional football club based in Belgrade. Despite the different paces of their journeys, Marko remains steadfast in his ambitions, carving his path in Serbian football. His determination mirrors the resilience that runs deep in the Kerkez family.

Untold Facts:

In the final section of Milos Kerkez’s Biography, we’ll uncover more facts about him. Without further ado, let’s get started.

FIFA Profile:

Milos Kerkez is one of the best young left-backs in the world, especially when it comes to movement. He stands out with 88% acceleration, 86% sprint speed, and 85% balance. But his greatest strength is his stamina—a whopping 90%! This ties perfectly to his childhood, where he was known for his endless bursts of energy.

For gamers on EA FC 25 Career Mode, Kerkez is a must-have wonderkid for building a strong team. His stats place him among the best rising stars, alongside names like Jorrel Hato and Rico Henry.

Milos Kerkez’s Salary:

Capology, a trusted source for player salaries, reveals where Milos Kerkez ranks in Bournemouth’s earnings. As of late 2024, the left-back earns £30,000 per week, sharing the same pay as fellow defender Dean Huijsen. Brazilian striker Evanilson tops the list with £85,000 weekly and £4.42 million annually. Marcus Tavernier earns £35,000 weekly, Ghanaian star Antoine Semenyo earns £50,000 weekly and £2.6 million yearly, matching the salary of Ukrainian defender Illia Zabarnyi. Despite being one of Bournemouth’s rising stars, Milos Kerkez remains one of the lower earners at the club. We call that a humble start for a talent destined for greatness!

Endnote:

Milos Kerkez, the son of Sebastijan and Tijana, is a dynamic left-back who has embraced five distinct football cultures across Serbia, Austria, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, and now England. Each step in his journey, whose story you now know, has added new layers to his talent and character.

From his spirited childhood playing makeshift roadblock football with his brothers to his parkour days and time on his father’s farm, Kerkez’s energy and determination have always stood out. Whether collecting chicken eggs or climbing trees, these early experiences forged his relentless drive. Even now, he dreams of building a bigger farm with horses, cows, and a lake teeming with fish to serve as a sanctuary where he can recharge away from the demands of football.

On the pitch, his journey hasn’t been without challenges. Serbia’s youth teams overlooked him, a decision they might now regret as Kerkez proudly dons the Hungarian national team jersey, fulfilling a decision made at just 14 years old. His father’s and Hungarian grandmother’s wishes, coupled with Hungary’s recognition of his talent, solidified his choice.

Kerkez’s rapid rise from Rapid Vienna’s academy to Hungary’s senior national team speaks volumes of his determination. Though Milan missed an opportunity to harness his potential, selling him after a brief stint, Kerkez has since become a symbol of resilience and ambition. Fluent in English, Hungarian, and some Italian, he reflects on his journey with gratitude and humility, knowing his story is just beginning.

From childhood dreams to gracing the highest stages, Milos Kerkez continues to prove that with energy, passion, and focus, even the sky isn’t the limit.

Appreciation Note:

Thank you for taking the time to explore this in-depth look into Milos Kerkez’s biography. We strive to bring you accurate and engaging football stories about emerging talents, just as we’ve done with players like Lewis Hall and Renato Veiga.

If you spot anything that seems off in this article about the fast-rising Serbian talent, we’d appreciate it if you let us know. Also, we’d love to hear your thoughts on Milos Kerkez, his career journey, and his inspiring story—feel free to share them in the comments section!