Stefan Džodić could make his senior Serbia debut during the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches after receiving an unexpected call from national team coach Veljko Paunović.
The 21-year-old Almería midfielder was born in France and developed through Montpellier’s academy. However, he said there was never any doubt about which national team he wanted to represent.
Džodić previously played for several Serbian youth teams and captained the country at youth level. His first senior call-up arrived earlier than he expected.
He said every national team invitation is special, but joining the senior squad feels like a dream.
Paunović’s Staff Had Been Watching Džodić
Džodić admitted that he did not know Serbia’s coaching staff had been monitoring his performances.
His focus, he said, was on improving his game and helping Almería. He believes not knowing about the national team’s interest allowed him to play with greater freedom and less pressure.
Paunović described him as a midfielder with an exceptional range of movement who can contribute inside the penalty area.
Džodić believes his style has been shaped by two different football systems. He received his entire football education in France before moving to Spain and adapting to a new philosophy and different tactical demands.
The 6-foot-3 midfielder was previously used primarily in a defensive role. He is now attempting to play closer to the opposing goal and contribute more goals.
Džodić described himself as a complete midfielder and named Paul Pogba as his childhood role model because of the French star’s combination of technique, physical strength and ability in duels.
His father, former professional footballer Nenad Džodić, was also an important influence. Nenad played in France and represented Yugoslavia internationally before helping guide his son’s development both on and off the field.
Serbia Begins Nations League Campaign Against Greece
Džodić is now training alongside established Serbian internationals including Dušan Tadić, Sergej Milinković-Savić, Saša Lukić and Nemanja Gudelj.
He said sharing the field with players he watched while growing up is another dream and an opportunity to learn from each of them.
Serbia begins its Nations League campaign against Greece in Belgrade on September 24. The team will then host the Netherlands three days later.
Paunović’s squad travels to Germany on October 1 before completing the international window against the Netherlands on October 4.
Džodić said Serbia must approach the competition one game at a time. His immediate focus is Greece, and he believes the team is capable of winning its opening match.
Although the 2028 European Championship remains a future ambition, Džodić said he is concentrating on the present and wants to make the strongest possible impression with the senior national team.
