One of the greatest water polo players of all time, Andrija Prlainović, is set to return to Serbian club water polo, signing with Radnički Kragujevac for the 2025/26 season. The announcement, made on December 19, 2024, marks the return of a legendary figure to domestic waters after 11 years of playing abroad.
Prlainović, widely regarded as one of the sport’s most decorated players, joins an ambitious project under the leadership of Radnički’s president, Jugoslav Vasović. The club has already secured Olympic gold medalists Sava Ranđelović and Nikola Dedović for the upcoming season, with Prlainović as the crown jewel of their new squad.
A Career Built on Success
Prlainović’s resume is unparalleled in water polo. The 37-year-old has won domestic championships in every country he’s played in and is the only player in history to have captured the Champions League title with four different clubs:
- Partizan (2011)
- Pro Recco (2012, 2015)
- Crvena Zvezda (2013)
- Szolnok (2017)
Internationally, he has been the backbone of Serbia’s golden generation, amassing a jaw-dropping collection of medals:
- 2 Olympic Golds (2016, 2021)
- 2 World Championships (2009, 2015)
- 5 European Championships (2006, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018)
- 11 World League Titles
Prlainović’s leadership and ability to elevate his teammates have made him a transformative player throughout his career, and his addition to Radnički signals their intent to challenge for every available trophy.
Prlainović’s Decision to Join Radnički
In his own words, Prlainović revealed that the timing felt perfect for this next chapter in his career.
“There was interest from Radnički before, but now the time feels right. I feel great physically, and their ambitions align with mine. The presence of current and former national team players at the club also played a significant role in my decision,” said Prlainović.
He also expressed enthusiasm about returning to Serbia after over a decade abroad, having spent five seasons with Marseille, his longest stint at any club outside of Serbia.
“I’ve followed Radnički closely since Jugoslav Vasović became director. It’s a club that has been the most consistent in Serbia over the last decade, competing regularly in Europe and the Adriatic League. Now, their ambitions are even higher, and with the players they’ve brought in, we’re aiming for all the trophies.”
Radnički’s Growing Legacy
Under the guidance of national team head coach Uroš Stevanović, Radnički has consistently been a competitive force in domestic and regional competitions. With Prlainović on board, alongside Ranđelović, Dedović, and other high-profile signings, the club is poised to challenge Novi Beograd’s dominance and secure its place as Serbia’s premier water polo team.
Prlainović’s return is a landmark moment for Serbian water polo, symbolizing a shift in the sport’s landscape. Radnički’s strategy of bringing top Serbian players back home is a bold move that could reinvigorate the domestic league and inspire a new generation of players.
A New Chapter Begins
For fans of Radnički and Serbian water polo, Prlainović’s signing represents more than just a player acquisition—it’s a statement of intent. The club’s determination to build a team capable of competing at the highest level in both domestic and international competitions is evident.
As Prlainović himself said:
“I believe I still have much to give. We’ll do our best to attack every trophy.”
With his storied career and unparalleled experience, Prlainović’s return to Serbia promises to be one of the most exciting narratives in the upcoming seasons. Fans will eagerly await the moment he steps into the pool donning the Radnički cap, ready to lead his new team to glory.