Al Nasr have recalled 35-year-old Serbian midfielder Luka Milivojevic to their domestic squad for the Adnoc Pro League, acting on a direct request from head coach Milos Milojevic. The coach wanted more experience and leadership in midfield as the club heads into a busy stretch of matches.
Club management registered Milivojevic in place of Norwegian defender Marius Høibråten, who will now be limited to Gulf Champions League appearances. Høibråten had previously been part of the local squad, but his spot has now gone to Milivojevic. Al Bayan confirmed the decision on September 16, 2026, with Al Nasr announcing Milivojevic's return under the slogan "the Captain Returns."
After leaving Al Nasr on July 1, 2026, Milivojevic maintained his fitness through individual training, which facilitated his return to the squad in the autumn.
Last season, Milivojevic played 22 matches in the Adnoc Pro League under coach Slavisa Jokanovic, scoring five goals and assisting three. His steady performances and ability to contribute both defensively and in attack made him a key player for Al Nasr, earning the trust of different coaches. These numbers are confirmed by Al Bayan, which highlighted his role as both a scorer and creator in midfield.
Since leaving the club in June, Milivojevic kept up his fitness with regular solo training. He is in good physical shape but will need some time to regain full match sharpness after several months without competitive games. Serbian media, including Nova.rs, report that his new contract with Al Nasr is for one season, matching the club's short-term goals and Milivojevic's readiness to contribute.
Such registration changes are common in the UAE Pro League, where clubs often adjust their foreign player quotas to fit tactical needs or respond to form. Choosing Milivojevic over extra defensive cover shows Al Nasr want more control in midfield as the season gets tougher. Other clubs have made similar moves, as seen in recent squad changes elsewhere in the league.
In official squad directories for September 2026, Milivojevic was previously listed among departed players, confirming that his status at Al Nasr had changed before his re-registration for the league.
Al Nasr are betting on Milivojevic's leadership and technical ability at a key point in the season. With his track record and the coach's backing, the club is shifting focus to experience in midfield. Both Emirati and Serbian press have described his return as a homecoming: "Kapiten se vratio / The Captain Returns."
