In this edition of our Personality Profile series, we sit down with Dusan Vlahović, one of Europe’s most promising young strikers. Born in Belgrade and currently playing for Juventus, Vlahović has taken the football world by storm with his clinical finishing, imposing physical presence, and sharp football IQ. The Serbian international shares his journey, his inspirations, and what it means to be a top-level footballer today.
CP: Dusan, tell us a little bit about your background and how you first got into football.
Dusan Vlahović:
I was born and raised in Belgrade, Serbia. Football has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. In Serbia, football is not just a game; it’s a way of life. I started playing in the streets, like many kids do, and my parents quickly noticed that I had something special. I joined FK Partizan’s youth academy when I was just a kid, around eight years old. From that point, football became my entire focus.
I owe a lot to my family for always supporting me. My father drove me to training after school, and my mother always ensured I stayed grounded. They’ve been there every step of the way, and I wouldn’t be where I am without them.
CP: You made your professional debut at a very young age. What was that experience like?
Vlahović:
I debuted with Partizan when I was 16. Playing for the club I had grown up idolizing was surreal, especially at that age. To be honest, I was nervous, but once I was on the pitch, all that disappeared.
I quickly learned that playing with professionals meant stepping up my game. It wasn’t just about talent anymore—how much effort you put in, how quickly you adapted.
CP: You moved to Fiorentina in 2018. How did that transfer change your career?
Vlahović:
That move to Fiorentina was a huge moment for me. I was 18 at the time and moving to Italy, which is one of the toughest leagues for strikers. Serie A is known for its tactical approach and strong defenses, so I knew I was in for a challenge.
In the beginning, it wasn’t easy. I had to adjust to a new culture, a new language, and the style of football in Italy. But it was also exciting. Fiorentina gave me the platform to grow, and I had great coaches who believed in me. I remember feeling pressure because I was brought in as a young talent, but I turned that pressure into motivation. My time at Fiorentina shaped me into the player I am today.
CP: You’re now at Juventus, one of the biggest clubs in the world. What has that been like?
Vlahović:
It’s an incredible honor to play for Juventus. The club has a rich history, and the expectations are always high. Every match is important, and there’s no room for anything less than winning. Being in an environment like this pushes you to give everything, every day.
The professionalism here is on another level. From the coaching staff to the medical team, everything is designed for success. You’re constantly challenged to improve, especially when you’re training alongside top players. The fans are also deeply engaged, whether cheering in the stands or supporting the team in other ways. I know betting on Juventus is huge, and it’s one of the ways fans feel connected to the club.
CP: As a Serbian international, what does representing your country mean to you?
Vlahović:
It means everything. Every time I put on the Serbian shirt, I feel an immense sense of pride. Playing for your country is one of the greatest honors you can have as a footballer.
I’m part of a talented generation of Serbian players, and I believe we have a bright future ahead. We’re building something special, and I’m excited to be a part of that.
CP: Who has been the biggest influence in your career so far?
Vlahović:
I’d have to say my father has been the biggest influence. He’s the one who introduced me to football and taught me to love the game. Even now, after a big match, he’s the first person I talk to. He keeps me grounded and reminds me where I come from.
On the professional side, I’ve had some great coaches who have shaped me. Vincenzo Montella at Fiorentina helped me a lot when I first arrived in Italy, and now at Juventus, working under Massimiliano Allegri has been a great experience. He’s a coach who demands the best from you, which is what I need to keep progressing.
CP: What do you do in your free time when you’re not playing football?
Vlahović:
When I’m not training or playing, I like to keep things simple. I spend a lot of time with my family and close friends. We’re a tight-knit group, and they help me relax and stay focused on what’s important. I also enjoy watching other sports—basketball is big in Serbia, so I follow that closely.
I’m also trying to improve my Italian (laughs). Living in Italy, I want to be fluent, so I take lessons and try to speak as much as I can with my teammates and coaches. Other than that, I love listening to music and just taking it easy.
CP: Lastly, any message to your fans?
Vlahović:
Just a big thank you to everyone who supports me, both in Serbia and worldwide. Your support means everything to me, and I promise to keep giving my best on the pitch. Forza Juve and let’s keep going strong!