Liverpool left back Milos Kerkez, 22, is preparing for his second season with the club, approaching the challenge of succeeding longtime fullback Andrew Robertson with a steady confidence shaped by an unconventional upbringing. Originally from Vrbas, Serbia, Kerkez’s childhood included experiences few professional footballers share, such as learning to drive a truck at the age of ten alongside his father. This background, he says, has given him a distinctive perspective on pressure and adversity.
Speaking during Liverpool’s preseason tour in the United States, Kerkez downplayed concerns about expectations at one of the world’s most prominent football clubs. “I don’t like [the word] ‘pressure,’” he said, explaining that growing up “a bit different” in Serbia taught him to approach challenges pragmatically. “It’s just your job. Do your own damn job! Play good, play bad. It’s a process, it’s about growing.”
Kerkez joined Liverpool last year from Bournemouth in a £40 million deal, tasked with eventually replacing Robertson, who departed for Tottenham Hotspur this summer after nine years at Anfield. The defender described his debut campaign as “challenging,” but credited Robertson for his support throughout the season, highlighting the former captain’s guidance on aspects like maintaining stamina and delivering precise crosses. “Andy helped me a lot,” Kerkez said. “He’s a legend. I look up to him.”
Kerkez’s family remains central to his personal life and mindset. His parents, Sebastijan and Tijana, have relocated to England, with Sebastijan often driving him to training sessions. Milos also maintains close ties to his siblings, including his middle brother Marko, a professional footballer with Aris Thessaloniki, and his older brother Rade, who recently married—a celebration that caused some confusion when others mistakenly thought Milos himself had wed. “In Serbia, it is normal for younger brothers to take the bride to the church,” Kerkez explained. “So now everyone thinks I got married, but I haven’t.”
The defender also represents Hungary internationally, honoring his grandmother’s heritage. While he continues to settle into his role at Liverpool, Kerkez acknowledges the difficulties experienced during his initial season, as the club failed to meet some expectations. However, he remains optimistic about the upcoming campaign.
Adding to the evolving environment at Liverpool, Kerkez noted the surprising departure of former head coach Arne Slot, learning of it unexpectedly while at home in Serbia. He welcomed the appointment of Andoni Iraola, his former manager at Bournemouth, as the new head coach. “He helped me and improved me a lot in the two years I spent with him,” Kerkez said, praising Iraola’s high-intensity style and focus on pressing and one-on-one play. According to Kerkez, Iraola’s professional and disciplined approach is well received within the squad during preseason preparations.
With key figures like Robertson and Mohamed Salah no longer at the club, Kerkez is aware of the need to step up. His perspective, shaped by both his unique upbringing and professional experiences, positions him to embrace the responsibility as Liverpool looks to rebuild and improve in the season ahead.