Milijaš and Šljivić: We want to show ourselves on the big stage

- It is really beautiful for young players that they have a chance to participate in the new format of the Champions League. Playing against the best European teams is important for the players, but also for the club. We will have the opportunity to measure the strengths and see where we are at the moment, as well as what we could raise to a higher level to work even better. Certainly last year's experience means a lot to us. Last season we also had a few players from the first team. The club lives on that, we all try to have as many young guys as possible in the first team. When they are not participating in the matches of the first team, surely they are better off playing in the Champions League for youth. The quality of international matches is at the level of the Super League of Serbia, so it means a lot to them - pointed out the former captain of Crvena zvezda.

The Youth Champions League match between Zvezda and Benfica will be played for the first time in the club's history on the grounds of our club's Youth School.

- I am very happy that we have the opportunity to play at home, we don't have to "guest" at another stadium. The club tried to play at home. We have two new pitches with the latest artificial surface. It will be extremely important that we play on the field we train on and are used to, and of course it is important for Zvezda and the fans to compete at the Maracana - emphasized Milijaš.

Midfielder Jovan Šljivić will be the key in matches against great football academies. Our first team player was born in 2005, so this season he will be at the disposal of the young strategist in the most important matches.

- It's great that we can play Champions League matches for youth, it's a great move by the club. We have a good team and I honestly believe that we can present ourselves in the best possible light. I did two training sessions with the team and the atmosphere is positive. I'm glad that I'm the oldest in the team, I'm here to help them achieve the best possible result. All of them have known each other for a long time and are good players, it is about the generation of players born in 2007. I will always be there for them to help and lead them, so that we can reach the goal together. Experience from the first team means to me, but we have to show it on the field, so that everything is not just words. The relationship with Nenad Milijaš is great, which can be seen from the atmosphere that prevails during the training sessions. The most important thing is to comply with everything that is required of us. I am really satisfied and happy to be a part of this team - said Šljivić.

As a reminder, the match between the youth teams of Crvena Zvezda and Benfica in the Champions League is scheduled for Thursday at 1 p.m., and the live broadcast will be available on Zvezda's club television.