Full Name: Milos Kerkez
Date of Birth: 7 November 2003
Place of Birth: Vrbas, Serbia and Montenegro
Height: 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in)
Position(s): Left-back / left wing-back
Current Club: AFC Bournemouth
Jersey No.: 3
When Kerkez joined Bournemouth, it was normal for fans and pundits to wonder who this young, energetic full-back was and what he could bring to the Premier League. Yet, it didn’t take long for the Hungarian sensation to put any doubts to rest.
With his fearless tackles, explosive runs down the flank, and an undeniable passion for the game, Milos Kerkez has quickly established himself as one of the Cherries’ brightest prospects, shaped by his experiences in Hungary, Italy, and the Netherlands.
Here Are 10 Interesting Facts About Milos Kerkez
1. His Youth Career at OFK Vrbas Was the Beginning of a Dream
Long before the bright lights of Europe’s top leagues, Milos Kerkez honed his skills at OFK Vrbas, a small club in Serbia where his footballing journey began. It was here that his passion for the game blossomed, and his natural talent started to shine.
The humble training grounds of Vrbas were the stage where young Milos first learned the values of hard work, discipline, and teamwork—qualities that would later define his career. His early days at OFK Vrbas laid the foundation before moves to other academies like Rapid Wien, Hódmezővásárhely and Győr.
2. He Speaks Four Languages
Communication is one of Milos Kerkez’s underrated strengths, and his ability to speak four languages sets him apart on and off the pitch. Fluent in Serbian, Hungarian, English, and Italian, Kerkez bridges cultural gaps with ease.
His multilingual skills not only reflect his intellectual curiosity but also make him a natural leader in diverse locker rooms. Whether he’s giving instructions on the field or connecting with fans around the world, Kerkez’s linguistic talents enhance his impact as a global footballer.
3. He Has a Mixed Heritage
Milos Kerkez’s story is one of cultural richness and diversity, stemming from his mixed Serbian and Hungarian heritage. This unique background has instilled in him a sense of pride and resilience, blending traditions from both nations.
His dual identity is reflected in his playing style, combining the grit and determination associated with Serbian football and the finesse and creativity of Hungarian players. Kerkez’s heritage is a source of strength that drives him to represent both cultures with honour.
4. He is the Youngest Hungarian to Appear at a UEFA European Championship Since 1964
In a moment that etched his name into Hungarian football history, Milos Kerkez became the youngest player to represent his country at a UEFA European Championship since 1964.
The significance of this achievement was not lost on him, as he stood tall among seasoned professionals on Europe’s grandest stage. This milestone wasn’t just a personal triumph; it symbolised the arrival of a new generation in Hungarian football, with Kerkez leading the charge.
5. A Phone Call from Paolo Maldini Persuaded Him to Join AC Milan
When one of football’s greatest defenders calls, you listen. While at Győr's youth system, Milos Kerkez was on the cusp of a life-changing decision when he received a call from Paolo Maldini, the legendary AC Milan icon.
The conversation was persuasive, filled with Maldini’s vision for the club and his belief in Kerkez’s potential. That call was all it took to convince the young talent to join the Rossoneri, setting him on a path to develop under the watchful eyes of footballing royalty.
6. He Currently Has a Tackle Success Rate of 56% in the Premier League
Competing in one of the toughest leagues in the world, Milos Kerkez has established himself as one of the best left-backs in the 2024-25 Premier League season, with a remarkable 56% tackle success rate in the Premier League.
This statistic highlights his ability to thrive against elite opposition, showcasing impeccable timing, awareness, and physicality. Whether shutting down dangerous wingers or breaking up counterattacks, Kerkez’s tackling not only demonstrates his defensive prowess but also inspires confidence in his teammates and fans alike when driving down the left flank.
7. He Spends Summers Fishing in the Woods and Camping with Close Friends
Off the pitch, Milos Kerkez finds solace in the simplicity of nature without his phone. Summers for him mean fishing in serene woods, sharing stories around campfires, and sleeping under the stars with his closest friends.
These moments of tranquillity allow Kerkez to recharge mentally and physically, bringing balance to the high-pressure world of professional football. His love for nature reflects his grounded personality and appreciation for life’s quieter joys.
He once told The Guardian: 'I'll be alone in a house, maybe with one friend, chill there, chop wood, make fire, camp, fish, that's it, no phone. People want you to concentrate on football, but you need something else because when you come back you're even more motivated.'
8. He Initially Wanted to Be a Professional Swimmer Before Choosing Football at Age 8
Before football became his calling, Milos Kerkez dreamed of making waves—literally—as a professional swimmer. At age 8, he swapped the pool for the pitch, captivated by the thrill of the game and the camaraderie it offered. While his swimming ambitions were left behind, the discipline and physical fitness he gained in the water undoubtedly contributed to his athleticism on the field.
9. His Older Brother, Marko Kerkez is Also a Professional Footballer
Football runs in the Kerkez family, with Milos’s elder brother, Marko, also pursuing the sport professionally at Partizan Belgrade. Growing up, the brothers pushed each other to improve, engaging in backyard duels that sharpened their skills and competitive edge.
Marko’s journey inspired Milos to aim higher, and the two continue to support each other despite playing in different leagues.
10. He Had a Successful Stint at AZ Alkmaar
Milos Kerkez’s time at AZ Alkmaar was a pivotal chapter in his career, showcasing his growth as a player. After joining AZ in January 2022 from AC Milan's youth setup, he quickly became a fan favourite in the Eredivisie, combining attacking flair with defensive solidity.
In his first full season, Kerkez made 52 appearances, contributing five goals and seven assists while helping AZ secure a fourth-place finish in the Dutch top flight. The teenager also played a significant role in AZ's Europa Conference League campaign, where his performances helped the team reach the semi-finals before losing 3-1 on aggregate to West Ham.
His time at AZ earned him accolades and drew the attention of Europe’s top clubs, proving that he could thrive under pressure. This experience was instrumental in shaping Kerkez into the dynamic and versatile player he is today.
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