Preki

Preki

Preki was born on June 24th, 1963

Full Name: Predrag Radosavlijević
Nationality: Serbian-American
Profession: Soccer player and coach
Playing Position: Attacking midfielder
Teams Coached: Chivas USA, Toronto FC
Playing Career: 1982-2005
Birthplace: Beli Manastir, Yugoslavia
Birth Year: 1963

A Serbian-American soccer player and coach who had a successful playing career and later managed several teams, including the Colorado Rapids and Toronto FC. He's known for his attacking style of play and ability to develop young players.

Written by: Fatima Ahmed Fatima Ahmed

Preki: The Serbian Soccer Sensation Who Conquered America

A Legendary Player and Coach

Preki, born Predrag Radosavljević, is a former Serbian soccer player and coach, renowned for his exceptional skills on the field and his impressive coaching career. He is the only two-time winner of the MLS MVP award, now known as the Landon Donovan MVP Award, and has represented the United States national team.

Early Life and Career

Born on June 24, 1963, in Belgrade, SR Serbia, Preki began his soccer journey playing for Red Star Belgrade in the old Yugoslav First League. In 1985, he was spotted by Tacoma Stars head coach Bob McNab at an indoor tournament in Belgrade and was sent to the United States.

Rise to Fame

Preki played five seasons for the Tacoma Stars, earning a three-time First Team All-Star and the 1988 and 1989 All-Star Game MVP. He led the league in assists in 1988 and scoring in 1989, and was crowned the 1989 MISL MVP. His exceptional performance earned him a spot in the outdoor game, and he began to consider becoming a U.S. citizen to make himself eligible for the U.S. national team.

MLS Original and National Team Representation

In 1996, Preki became an MLS original, playing for the Kansas City Wizards (now known as Sporting Kansas City) and Miami Fusion. He represented the United States at the 1998 FIFA World Cup, cementing his status as a soccer legend.

Coaching Career

After retiring from playing, Preki ventured into coaching, taking the reins at Toronto FC and Chivas USA in MLS, and Sacramento Republic FC and Saint Louis FC in the United Soccer League. He is currently an assistant coach with Seattle Sounders FC in MLS.

Awards and Honors

Legacy

Preki's contributions to the world of soccer are undeniable. He has left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring generations of players and coaches. His dedication, passion, and perseverance have earned him a place among the soccer elite, and his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate for years to come.


Trivia and Fun Facts

Timeline
1963
Born in Belgrade, Yugoslavia
Predrag Radosavljević, known as Preki, was born in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, and would go on to become a successful soccer player and coach.
1980
Started Professional Career
Preki began his professional soccer career, playing for clubs in Yugoslavia and the United States.
1996
Joined Kansas City Wizards
Preki joined the Kansas City Wizards in Major League Soccer, where he played for several seasons and earned multiple awards.
2006
Retired from Playing
Preki retired from professional soccer, having played for several clubs and earning 28 caps for the United States national team.
2010
Began Coaching Career
Preki began his coaching career, taking the helm of the Portland Timbers and later coaching Chivas USA.
Preki

Preki Quiz

What is Preki's nationality?

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FAQ
What is Prekis soccer career?
Preki is a retired Serbian-American soccer player who played professionally for over a decade, including stints with the Kansas City Wizards and the United States national team.
What was Prekis role in the Kansas City Wizards?
Preki was a key player for the Kansas City Wizards, helping the team win the MLS Cup in 2000. He was also a five-time MLS All-Star.
What is Prekis coaching career?
After retiring as a player, Preki went on to become a soccer coach, managing teams in the United States and abroad. He has coached teams in MLS, the USL, and the NASL.
What is Prekis legacy in American soccer?
Preki is considered one of the most successful and influential players in American soccer history, known for his skill on the field and his leadership off it.
What is Prekis current role in soccer?
Preki currently serves as a coach and consultant, working with teams and players to develop their skills and strategies.

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