Jovan Mijatović finally joins NYCFC as the most exciting signing in years

On Monday, New York City FC finally announced the signing of Serbian Jovan Mijatović.  The player is a striker from FK Crvena Zvezda, or otherwise known as Red Star Belgrade.  The contract has him signed with his new club until 2028, with an option for 2029.  He joins players like Hannes Wolf and Agustín Ojeda as signings with potential.

Mijatović is a striker that is just starting his professional career.  He is being brought in to compete with Mounsef Bakrar, so fans should expect him to be up front and center.  However, he has a little experience playing on the wings as a youth player, so it will be interesting whether Nick Cushing will try to play him elsewhere.  If he is capable of playing on the wings with the Pigeons, then that will add to the versatility of the final third.   

Jovan Mijatović has plenty of potential for NYCFC and beyond

Known for his clinical finishing, Mijatovic’s speed also makes him a formidable threat to opposing teams.  He is good with the ball at his feet and elegantly maneuvers the ball around other players.  Additionally, he can seek out other players to lead them to scoring chances.

With Belgrade, he has appeared in 26 matches in all competitions this season, including with the youth team.  He even appeared in four Champions League Group stage fixtures with the first team and has 14 regular season appearances.  He led his team with eight goals in league play. 

Mijatović is a fantastic signing for NYCFC.  His potential is vast, but he has already proved he can perform at a higher level.  Truthfully, he is someone who will probably be with the Pigeons for a very short time.  There is no question he will be starting for a top-five European league team in the next year or two. 

Thankfully, the Bronx side can help the Serbian grow as a player while benefitting from a talented striker at the same time.  Notably, one needs to remember that Major League Soccer is a different league, so he might need time to adjust.  However, out of all the signings thus far, he is the most exciting and promising. 

It is unknown whether Mijatović will be available for Saturday’s season opener.  No matter what, it will be an incredible moment when he officially makes his debut for NYCFC.