After years of scoring goals in England, Aleksandar Mitrovic sought new challenges in the Middle East. With Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, he won almost every trophy available, and since the summer, he has been taking on defenses in Qatar for Al Rayyan.

Currently sidelined with a minor injury, the Serbian striker took time to speak with Flashscore about his move to Qatar, his experiences at Newcastle and Fulham, his views on manager Marco Silva, and the current state of the Serbian national team.

A New Chapter in Qatar

Mitrovic explained why he made the switch from Saudi Arabia to Qatar:
“A lot of things. I came to a club that has big potential, wants to grow and win trophies. I arrived here from a league where I also played for a big club that won a lot of silverware. The people from Al Rayyan wanted me, I really liked the project and the way they’re thinking about football. Hopefully, we can achieve a lot together.”

He also spoke positively about life and football in Qatar:
“It’s very lovely—calmer, with fewer people on the streets and less traffic. Football-wise, we have amazing facilities and training grounds. The club hasn’t won a trophy in seven or eight years, and I hope I can help change that.”

Experience from England

Having spent eight years in England, Mitrovic believes his experience can help Al Rayyan:
“I’m at my best age now. I’ve been through a lot in England and with the national team at the World Cups and Euros. Hopefully, I can help my teammates, especially the younger players, raise their performance levels. My main job is to score goals and help the team win, but I also give advice during training.”

Reflecting on his time at Newcastle, Mitrovic shared fond memories:
“I didn’t feel pressure there. Newcastle is a club I’ve always liked—it has a special place in my heart. When I got there at 20 or 21, I was young and inexperienced in the best league in the world. Maybe it didn’t go exactly as planned, but we created great memories and connections with the fans. I still have a lot of friends there.”

Praise for Marco Silva

Mitrovic also praised his former Fulham manager Marco Silva:
“Marco wasn’t just my coach; I consider him a friend. He’s one of the best managers I’ve ever worked with. He’s amazing in every aspect—tactics, man management, understanding football. I honestly don’t know how he’s not at a top club yet. He should be managing a team like Liverpool, Chelsea, or Manchester United.”

Loyalty Through Relegations

Despite experiencing relegations with both Newcastle and Fulham, Mitrovic stayed loyal:
“When you get relegated, you feel guilty. I wanted to make it right and bring both clubs back. Both are amazing clubs, and I still follow and support them. Even in the second division, the fans wanted me to stay, and I felt good there.”

Looking Ahead with Serbia

Mitrovic spoke about the Serbian national team and next year’s World Cup:
“Hopefully we qualify, but nothing depends solely on us now. We have tough games ahead, against Latvia and especially England. We have a good squad with talented young players, so we have to fight for every chance we get.”

Reflecting on former coach Dragan Stojkovic, who resigned after a loss to Albania, he added:
“It’s an unfortunate end for him because he did a really good job. We played at two World Cups and reached the Euros after more than 20 years. We’re thankful for everything he did, and now we look to the future with a new manager and a talented squad.”