Introduction
Draško Vojinović is a Serbian professional footballer who has played as a central midfielder for clubs in the Serbian SuperLiga and the Serbian First League. His career has been characterised by consistent performances in midfield, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to adapt to different tactical roles. While he has not yet achieved widespread international acclaim, Vojinović has become a respected figure within the domestic leagues and has represented Serbia at various youth levels.
Early Life and Youth Career
Birth and Family Background
Vojinović was born on 5 January 1994 in the city of Novi Sad, the second largest city in Serbia. He grew up in a working‑class neighbourhood and was introduced to football at an early age by his father, a former amateur player who coached local youth teams. The Vojinović household placed a strong emphasis on discipline and community involvement, values that would later shape Draško’s approach to the sport.
Introduction to Football
He joined the local club FK Vojvodina’s youth academy at the age of nine, a club renowned for developing technical and tactical proficiency among its prospects. Over the next decade, Vojinović progressed through the academy’s various age groups, consistently ranking among the top performers in midfield. His performances in local youth competitions earned him recognition from regional scouts and opened the door to national youth teams.
Youth Development and Training Regimen
During his formative years, Vojinović trained under several coaches, each emphasizing different aspects of midfield play. Early on, emphasis was placed on ball control, spatial awareness, and passing accuracy. Later, he was introduced to defensive responsibilities and physical conditioning, which contributed to a balanced skill set. The training schedule typically involved three sessions per week, with an additional focus on technical drills during the off‑season. This rigorous regimen fostered resilience and adaptability in the young player.
Professional Career
Early Professional Years (2012–2014)
In 2012, Vojinović signed his first professional contract with FK Vojvodina, the same club where he had trained as a youth. He made his senior debut on 15 August 2013 in a league match against FK Rad, substituting for an injured midfielder in the 65th minute. During his debut season, he appeared in nine league matches, primarily as a substitute, and was praised for his composure and vision in the final third.
Loan to FK Srem (2014–2015)
Seeking regular first‑team football, Vojinović was loaned to FK Srem in the Serbian First League for the 2014–15 season. The loan period proved pivotal; he featured in 27 league games and contributed five goals and eight assists. His performance earned him the club’s “Player of the Season” award and attracted interest from several top‑flight clubs.
Return to Vojvodina and Establishment as a Starter (2015–2017)
Upon returning to Vojvodina, Vojinović was integrated into the first‑team squad by manager Vladimir Ivić. He quickly established himself as a regular starter in midfield, playing 34 league matches in the 2015–16 season and earning the “Young Player of the Season” award. His consistent displays included a notable 3‑goal performance against Red Star Belgrade on 12 April 2016, which highlighted his attacking potential.
Transfer to FK Partizan (2017–2019)
In the summer of 2017, Vojinović transferred to FK Partizan, the city rival of Vojvodina. The transfer fee was reported to be €1.5 million, a significant investment for the Serbian club. He debuted for Partizan in a Europa League qualifier against FC Sheriff Tiraspol on 2 July 2017. Over two seasons with Partizan, Vojinović accumulated 58 league appearances, scoring six goals and providing ten assists. His versatility allowed him to occupy both central and wide midfield positions, contributing to the club’s domestic dominance and consistent European qualification.
Loan to FK Radnik Surdulica (2019)
During the 2019 season, Vojinović was loaned to FK Radnik Surdulica for the remainder of the campaign. He featured in 14 league matches, offering a steady presence in midfield, and helped the club secure a mid‑table finish. The loan experience reinforced his leadership qualities and underscored his adaptability to different team dynamics.
Recent Years and Current Club (2020–Present)
From 2020 onward, Vojinović has played for several clubs in the Serbian SuperLiga, including FK Inđija, FK Čukarički, and FK Vojvodina again. Across these stints, he has maintained a reputation for consistent midfield performances, often featuring as a key playmaker. In the 2022–23 season with FK Čukarički, he played 32 matches, scored four goals, and recorded 12 assists, aiding the club in securing a top‑four finish and a place in the Europa Conference League qualifiers.
International Career
Youth Representation
Vojinović has represented Serbia at various youth levels, starting with the U18 team in 2012. He earned 8 caps and scored 2 goals for the U18s. In 2013, he was called up to the U19 squad, where he participated in the UEFA European Under‑19 Championship qualifiers, earning 5 caps and contributing 1 assist. His performances at the youth international level showcased his ability to adapt to high‑pressure matches and earned him recognition among the country’s promising talents.
Senior National Team Prospects
Despite his solid club record, Vojinović has yet to receive a senior call‑up. Factors such as competition in the midfield position, tactical preferences of national team managers, and his fluctuating club form are cited as reasons for the delay. Nonetheless, his consistent domestic performances keep him within consideration for future senior national team selections.
Playing Style and Reception
Technical Attributes
Vojinović is known for his solid passing range, often executing short, incisive passes in tight spaces and long, diagonal through balls to break defensive lines. His dribbling is characterized by a low centre of gravity, allowing him to navigate congested midfield areas effectively. Additionally, he demonstrates a high work rate, covering significant ground during matches and contributing defensively by tracking back and intercepting passes.
Physical Profile
Standing at 1.78 meters, Vojinović’s physique combines agility with sufficient strength to withstand physical challenges in midfield. His stamina is noted as a key asset, enabling him to maintain intensity throughout full 90‑minute games. He maintains a disciplined approach to training, focusing on cardiovascular fitness and recovery protocols.
Tactical Roles
Throughout his career, Vojinović has adapted to several midfield roles, including central box‑to‑box midfielder, defensive midfielder, and wide attacking midfielder. Coaches have praised his versatility, often deploying him in systems requiring midfield flexibility, such as 4–3–3 or 4–2–3–1 formations. His adaptability has allowed him to fit into various tactical schemes, often serving as a pivot between defense and attack.
Reputation Among Peers and Analysts
Within the Serbian football community, Vojinović is regarded as a reliable and hardworking professional. Former teammates have highlighted his leadership qualities in training and on the pitch, citing his ability to organise the midfield and maintain team cohesion. Football analysts often point to his consistency in the Serbian SuperLiga, noting that he frequently outperforms expectations given his modest statistical output in goals and assists.
Career Statistics
Club Appearances and Goals
The table below summarises Vojinović’s club career statistics up to the 2023–24 season. Figures represent league appearances and goals only.
- FK Vojvodina (2012–2014): 9 appearances, 0 goals
- FK Srem (loan, 2014–2015): 27 appearances, 5 goals
- FK Vojvodina (2015–2017): 68 appearances, 7 goals
- FK Partizan (2017–2019): 58 appearances, 6 goals
- FK Radnik Surdulica (loan, 2019): 14 appearances, 0 goals
- FK Inđija (2020–2021): 30 appearances, 3 goals
- FK Čukarički (2021–2023): 63 appearances, 8 goals
- FK Vojvodina (2023–present): 12 appearances, 1 goal (as of 20 March 2024)
International Youth Records
- Serbia U18: 8 caps, 2 goals
- Serbia U19: 5 caps, 1 assist
Honours and Achievements
Club Honours
- Serbian SuperLiga Champion with FK Partizan – 2017–18
- Serbian Cup Winner with FK Partizan – 2017–18
- Serbian First League Runner‑up with FK Srem – 2014–15
Individual Awards
- FK Srem “Player of the Season” – 2014–15
- FK Vojvodina “Young Player of the Season” – 2015–16
- FK Čukarički “Player of the Year” – 2022–23
Personal Life
Family and Education
Vojinović married his long‑time partner, Marija, in 2018. The couple has two children, a daughter born in 2019 and a son born in 2022. He holds a high school diploma and has pursued coaching certifications alongside his playing career, aiming to transition into a coaching role post‑retirement. Vojinović has expressed interest in youth development and has participated in football academies’ outreach programs.
Community Involvement
Beyond the football pitch, Vojinović is active in charitable initiatives within Novi Sad. He has worked with local non‑profits to provide sports equipment to under‑privileged schools and to organise football clinics for youth in rural areas. His philanthropic efforts have earned him recognition from municipal authorities and have cemented his reputation as a community ambassador.
Legacy and Impact
While Vojinović’s career has largely unfolded within the Serbian domestic leagues, his consistent performances and versatility have made him a role model for young players aspiring to professional careers. He exemplifies the importance of dedication, adaptability, and a strong work ethic. His involvement in community outreach also highlights the potential of athletes to influence societal development beyond sports.
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