Humility and Ambition: Milenkovic’s Vision for Nottingham Forest
Nikola Milenkovic, the Serbian defender, has emerged as a vital voice for Nottingham Forest, a club that has seen a remarkable rise this season. In a recent interview on BBC Radio Nottingham’s "Shut Up And Show More Football" podcast, Milenkovic emphasized the importance of humility and continuous improvement for the team to achieve their ambitious goals, including Champions League qualification. When he first joined the club, he admits, he did not anticipate Forest being in contention for European football. However, he now acknowledges that this is the reality they face, and the team must embrace it with a grounded and focused mindset.
Staying Grounded in Success
Milenkovic’s comments reflect a mature and realistic approach to the team’s unexpected success. "Nobody expected us to be in this position, but we are not surprised now—it’s the reality," he stated. The defender believes that maintaining a humble attitude and keeping feet firmly on the ground is crucial. "We need to stay humble and keep improving," he emphasized. This sentiment is a testament to the team’s collective mental strength and their ability to handle the pressure of high expectations without letting it affect their performance. It’s a strategy that could be key in navigating the challenging second half of the season and staying in contention for European spots.
Adapting to Different Formations
One of the standout qualities of Milenkovic and the Forest defense is their adaptability. Throughout the season, they have had to adjust to various formations, including both a back three and a back four. "There are some differences between playing a three or four, but I think today defenders are modern and need to know how to play in either setup—it doesn’t matter anymore," he explained. While the tactical shifts present unique challenges, Milenkovic is confident in the team’s ability to excel in any formation. "There are differences, with three there is less movement on the sides and with four you need to run more—we are ready to play both, it’s up to Nuno to decide," he added. This flexibility is a significant asset for the team, allowing them to remain versatile and unpredictable to opponents.
Rising Stars in the Defense
Milenkovic also spoke highly of the young talent within the Forest defense, specifically mentioning Brazilian defenders Murillo and Morato. "They’re really good players. They’re so young with big potential, I think they will get better and better, but they’re already so good but they have really, really big potential," he said. The Serbian defender’s confidence in these young stars is not only a vote of faith but also a recognition of their current abilities. The team’s success in nurturing and integrating young players is a testament to the club’s strong youth development program and the supportive environment within the squad.
Team Cohesion and Mutual Support
In addition to the young talent, Milenkovic highlighted the importance of team cohesion and mutual support. "We also have [Willy] Boly and Zach [Abbott]. We are trying to help each other on the pitch and to know what the player next to you will do in certain moments so you will react better," he explained. This collaborative approach ensures that the defense operates as a cohesive unit, with each player understanding and anticipating the movements of their teammates. Such coordination is essential for maintaining a solid defensive line and thwarting opposition attacks effectively.
A Bright Future Awaits
Nikola Milenkovic’s insights provide a glimpse into the mindset and culture of Nottingham Forest as they aim to make their mark in European football. His emphasis on humility, adaptability, and team cohesion underscores the club’s commitment to sustainable success. As the season progresses, the team’s ability to stay focused and continue improving will be crucial. With a strong defense and a growing core of talented young players, Nottingham Forest is well-positioned to achieve their ambitious goals and make a statement in the footballing world. Fans can listen to the full episode of the podcast on BBC Sounds to gain deeper insights into the team’s journey and the driving forces behind their success.
