The Serbian winger who conquered Europe through grit and high-stakes transfers
In short: From a 17-year-old debutant in the Serbian SuperLiga to a Europa League hero, Filip Kostić’s career is a masterclass in navigating the highest tiers of European football, marked by record-breaking fees and unforgettable nights in Barcelona.
Filip Kostić’s ascent began in 2010 with Radnički Kragujevac, where he debuted at just 17 years old. His early performances in the Serbian SuperLiga quickly drew interest from major European clubs like Tottenham Hotspur and Anderlecht. By 2012, he had moved to the Netherlands to join Groningen, a move that would set the stage for his emergence as a premier playmaker in the Eredivisie.
His time in Germany saw significant financial milestones. In 2014, VfB Stuttgart signed him for a fee of approximately €6 million. Following Stuttgart's relegation in the 2015–16 season, Kostić moved to Hamburger SV for €14 million, a transfer that established him as the most expensive player in that club's history. However, it was with Eintracht Frankfurt where he reached his professional zenith.
Kostić’s impact at Frankfurt was profound, particularly during the 2021–22 season. He played a pivotal role in the club's victory in the UEFA Europa League, famously scoring twice in a 3–2 win against Barcelona at the Camp Nou. His individual brilliance earned him the Europa League Player of the Season and top assists provider honors. Following his success, he moved to Juventus in 2022, later returning to the Eredivisie with PSV in 2026.
On the international stage, Kostić has been a mainstay for Serbia, representing his nation at the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups, as well as UEFA Euro 2024. While his career has been defined by high-level competition, it has also faced setbacks, such as a suspected knee ligament injury during the opening match of Euro 2024 against England.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Filip Kostić
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