Milos Degenek’s Saudi Arabian adventure is coming to an end with the Socceroos defender poised to return to Serbian team Red Star Belgrade.
Degenek signed a three-and-a-half year deal with Middle East giants Al Hilal in January during Australia’s Asian Cup campaign in the United Arab Emirates.
The move came shortly before Degenek made a crucial error which led to the only goal in the host nation’s shock 1-0 quarterfinal victory over the Socceroos in Al Ain. Degenek endeared himself to Al Hilal fans during a derby against rivals Al Ittihad in February, standing up to a barrage of shoes and bottles from the stands when he came close to the sidelines during a 2-0 win.
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But it appears his time is over with a loan move back to Red Star looming before the Serbian club’s bid to make the Champions League group stages for a second successive season.
Degenek took to social media to farewell his Saudi supporters.
“I appreciate the affection and love I received from the fans for the six months,” he posted on Twitter.
“I hope to meet again with you guys in the future. For now it’s a goodbye and I wish you all the best.”
A reply from Al Hilal’s official Twitter account thanked Degenek and wished him all the best with Red Star.
It’s understood Degenek’s return to Serbia is a loan with an option to make the move permanent.
The news will most likely be welcomed by Socceroos coach Graham Arnold before Australia’s first World Cup 2022 qualifier against Kuwait in September.
Degenek’s previous stint at Red Star coincided with Champions League performances against eventual winners Liverpool, French giants Paris Saint-Germain and Italian powerhouse Napoli.