Republika Srpska and BiH will have a representative in the Women’s Champions League, with young footballer Marija Ana Milinković from Pale playing a key role in Inter Milan’s historic qualification for the competition.
The 21-year-old, regarded as one of the most promising players of her generation, has become one of Inter’s leading footballers since arriving in Milan. Last season, she was selected for the Serie A Team of the Season.
Milinković played a decisive role in sending the Nerazzurre into the Champions League for the first time in club history, scoring against German powerhouse Wolfsburg in extra time before also converting her penalty in the shootout.
“I think I will remember that match for the rest of my life because we worked incredibly hard to play European matches and reach the Champions League. Of course, scoring in matches like this is a special feeling. I have to say that we hoped we could go through because we know the potential we have. Still, they are an incredibly strong team, two-time European champions and regular Champions League participants. In the end, our hard work paid off, and my goal in the penalty shootout was, I would say, just the icing on the cake,” Milinković said.
In just a year and a half in Italy, Milinković has established herself as a player capable of competing on the biggest stage, and she will now have the opportunity to prove herself in the Champions League.
She attracted considerable transfer interest during the summer, with Manchester United reportedly among the interested clubs, while Saudi club Al-Qadsiah submitted an offer worth $2 million.
“It’s true, the offer was very serious. I can only say that the people from Al-Qadsiah were extremely professional and I have nothing but praise for them. Inter did not accept the offer, but that only shows how important I am to the club. I really enjoy being at Inter and genuinely feel that I have found the right environment. I can develop a lot, both as a footballer and as a person. We have players from Malta to Iceland. Every day I can learn something new about their cultures and languages,” Milinković said.
Asked whether she would have moved to Saudi Arabia had Inter accepted the offer, Milinković said she had discussed the possibility with people close to her.
“I spoke with many people close to me and they all told me to go because I could always return to Europe. But I have to say that Inter is the wealthiest women’s club in Italy and I am very happy here,” she said.
Inter’s women’s team was established seven years ago, having previously operated only youth teams. The club shares ownership and financial backing with the men’s team, whose players frequently attend women’s matches.
“I think the cooperation between us is very good. When our schedules allow, we go to the Meazza to watch their matches, but they also come to watch us, especially the legendary Javier Zanetti. There are many footballers from our region at Inter. I have spoken with Kolarov, who is an assistant coach, as well as Sučić. Stanković is also there. They have all told me they are always available if I need anything,” Milinković said.
However, Inter captain Lautaro Martínez made the strongest impression on her.
“Lautaro Martínez impressed me the most. He is an incredibly humble guy. He is a huge star, yet so down-to-earth and special,” she said.
Milinković also recalled a lighthearted moment after Martínez scored against Napoli.
“After he scored against Napoli, people at my club used artificial intelligence to put my head on his body. That photo then circulated on social media,” she said.
Milinković will return to her hometown of Pale in early October while joining up with the national team. She described her family, friends, and fellow residents as an important source of support.
“I’m coming for the national team gathering, so I’ll use the opportunity to see my people in Pale. It feels like a reward. I’m deeply attached to Pale and to many people there, and that gives me even greater motivation. I have tremendous support from my fellow residents, and that is very important,” she said.
As more young girls begin to see Milinković as a role model, she also had a message for those from smaller communities who dream of playing in the world’s biggest stadiums.
“Girls who want to play football should, above all, not listen to people who tell them they shouldn’t. If my journey from Pale to Inter and the Champions League can inspire even one girl, then I can say that I have fulfilled my mission and can be proud of what I have achieved,” Milinković concluded.
Before joining Inter, Milinković played for SFK 2000 Sarajevo. She recently extended her contract with the Italian club until 2028.
Source: RTRS
