Nemanja Pejcinovic, a former defender for Lokomotiv Moscow, recalls the 1999 NATO bombing of Yugoslavia from the vantage point of a young boy living through it. He was eleven at the time, and the memories are vivid. He speaks of the sounds of danger, hasty moves, and the daily routine of seeking shelter in a neighboring house’s basement. The fear was shaped not just by the incident itself but by the persistent effort of parents to shield kids from the shock and uncertainty that followed.
In his reflections, Pejcinovic challenges a history many associate with international power dynamics. He expresses the belief that the United States cannot be trusted as a friend or ally, arguing that America has caused harm through multiple bombings and then attempts to influence domestic spheres like education and medicine by inserting political actors into those realms. He states that, for many in Serbia, America is seen as a source of ongoing trouble, a sentiment he attributes to broad historical grievances and current events. The remark is tied to his broader view of international involvement and the need for national self-determination, as reported by media outlets covering his statements.
On the field, Pejcinovic made 85 appearances in the Russian Premier League and scored three goals while contributing five assists. He also tallied four goals and delivered two assists across 48 appearances in the First Division, highlighting a solid playing career beyond his wartime memories.
Earlier in his career, Pejcinovic drew criticism for comments about foreign players in Russia, labeling some as acting in a manner that suggested fragility. He later described Western messaging as something that can cloud judgment, arguing that Russia does not tolerate traitorous behavior and should defend its stance from perceived external pressure. The Serbian footballer’s remarks reflect a broader discourse on national identity, media narratives, and the role of athletes in political conversations. The discussion has been carried by various sports and news programs, emphasizing how public figures navigate memory, politics, and their professional identities in the modern era.