When Nottingham Forest made their move for Nikola Milenkovic from Fiorentina, they were looking to solve a defensive puzzle.
What they found was a towering centre-back, known affectionately as ‘The Serbinator’ by his teammates. Standing at 6ft 5in, Milenkovic has quickly become one of the standout signings of the season, helping Forest transition from relegation battlers to surprise title contenders.
Milenkovic’s arrival in the Premier League has been nothing short of sensational. The Serbian international, who was appointed his national team’s captain last year, has made a profound impact in his first season in England’s top flight. His no-nonsense defensive style, combined with his impressive mobility and technical skills, has strengthened Forest’s backline and made them a formidable force. The nickname ‘Serbinator’—coined by teammate Harry Toffolo—encapsulates both his imposing presence and his ability to get the job done with minimal fuss.
Ahead of their crucial match against league leaders Liverpool, Forest are aiming for a seventh consecutive win in the Premier League and a tenth clean sheet. Milenkovic, who has played an integral role in their defensive solidity, knows just how much is at stake for this historic club. “I was very aware of Forest’s history before I signed, and being champions of Europe twice is an incredible thing,” says Milenkovic. “We need to bring this history with us and try to create some of our own.”
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Nottingham Forest’s revival has been marked by an extraordinary team spirit, and Milenkovic is a perfect embodiment of that ethos. The 27-year-old’s focus on the team rather than individual accolades is evident in everything he does, from his disciplined performances on the field to his work off it. The Serbinator has also become a threat at set-pieces, scoring twice already this season, including a crucial header at Old Trafford in Forest’s 1-0 win over Manchester United.
Milenkovic’s signing was aimed at addressing one of Forest’s most glaring weaknesses from last season: their vulnerability to set-piece goals. With 23 goals conceded from set-pieces in the previous campaign, Forest needed someone who could command the air, and Milenkovic has delivered. “I was aware of the record last season, and they told me they wanted me to help fix it,” he explains. “We do a lot of work on it every week, and put big attention on it.”
Forest’s defensive turnaround, which has seen them concede the second-fewest goals in the league this season, is a testament to Milenkovic’s leadership and his growing partnership with fellow centre-back Murillo. The two have formed a rock-solid pairing, with Forest’s nine clean sheets this season the second-highest in the league. “It’s the objective for every defender, we all live for clean sheets,” Milenkovic says. “Even in training, we work for that.”
The Team has Improved
The mental shift in Forest’s defence is clear, with Milenkovic admitting that after a difficult period last year where they conceded 12 goals in six matches, the team has come together to improve. “We are defensively much stronger now,” he says, adding that while he’s happy with how things are going, he is always focused on the team rather than individual recognition.
This mindset has contributed to Forest’s remarkable transformation from a team battling relegation last season to one that is now eyeing a potential European spot. The club finished last season with just 32 points, the lowest total ever for a team to avoid relegation in Premier League history. But this season, the mood around the club has completely shifted, and Milenkovic credits the atmosphere in the dressing room for their success.
“I’ve never known a dressing room like this before in my career,” Milenkovic admits. “When I signed, I noticed it immediately, and it gave me a lot of optimism for the future. There is a real chemistry between all the players and staff, the connection is just so strong. We want to do big things, so we need to keep this ambition and hunger for success.”
Forest fans are already drawing comparisons between the current defensive partnership of Milenkovic and Murillo and the club’s legendary pairing of Larry Lloyd and Kenny Burns, who helped guide the team to European glory.
Team Chemistry
While Milenkovic and Murillo may not share Burns’ legendary tunnel antics—such as frightening Kevin Keegan with his false teeth—their on-field understanding is similarly telepathic. “It’s so important to trust your partner in defense,” Milenkovic says. “We speak a lot away from the pitch, and we understand each other. We cover each other’s backs.”
Milenkovic’s discipline has also been remarkable this season, with only two yellow cards to his name, a stark contrast to the 27 cautions and two dismissals he accumulated during his time at Fiorentina. “I’m calmer now than I was a few years ago. It’s all about experience, knowing when to make the right decisions,” he says, a reflection of his growth as a player. His attention to detail also extends to his preparation off the pitch, where he spends hours studying his opponents to ensure he’s always ready for any challenge.
The Serbian centre-back has always looked up to Nemanja Vidic, the former Manchester United defender, as his role model. “Vidic was my No. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 hero,” Milenkovic admits. “His character, mentality, and leadership have been a huge inspiration for me.” Milenkovic now aims to establish himself as one of the Premier League’s best defenders, continuing a proud tradition of Serbian defenders like Vidic and Branislav Ivanovic.
The Game Against Liverpool
With Forest continuing their pursuit of a strong finish to the season, Milenkovic’s contributions have not gone unnoticed.
The club’s upcoming clash with Liverpool is pivotal, as Forest look to repeat their memorable 1-0 win at Anfield earlier in the season. “It’s so difficult to play against Liverpool because they can hurt you at any moment,” says Milenkovic, reflecting on the challenge ahead. “To do the double over them would be a huge moment for us.”
For now, Forest’s focus remains on the immediate task at hand, and while Milenkovic is enjoying the team’s success, he knows that staying grounded is key to achieving their ultimate goal. “We are not surprised with where we are, it is now reality,” he says.
With his leadership and unwavering focus, Milenkovic is helping Forest write a new chapter in their storied history.
