Matko Miljevic is a name that has been gaining massive attention in the soccer world. Born in the United States but with deep Argentine and Croatian roots, this 24-year-old attacking midfielder embodies the modern player: versatile, technically gifted, and full of grit. As of December 2025, Miljevic is enjoying a breakout moment at Club Atlético Huracán in Argentina, where he has become a key piece in unforgettable campaigns. His journey—spanning continents and personal challenges—inspires a new generation of bilingual, multicultural athletes. In this article, we trace his path from his first kicks in Miami to the electric pitches of Buenos Aires.
Childhood and Early Development: Roots Between Two Worlds
Matko Mijael Miljevic was born on May 9, 2001, in Miami, Florida—a city pulsing with Latin energy in the heart of the United States. His parents, both Argentine natives, had moved to the U.S. in the late 1990s to escape the severe economic crisis that ravaged Argentina from 1998 to 2002. That temporary relocation shaped Matko’s early years, growing up surrounded by a blend of American culture and Buenos Aires traditions. His paternal grandfather, born in Banja Luka (now Bosnia and Herzegovina, then part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia), had emigrated to Argentina in the 1940s, bringing the family’s Croatian heritage with him.
When Matko was still very young, the family returned to Argentina to reconnect with their roots. It was in Buenos Aires that soccer became his true passion. At age nine, he joined the Boca Juniors academy—one of the giants of Argentine soccer—where he learned the game’s fundamentals with the intensity only Argentine youth soccer can provide. His time there was short-lived, however. In 2011, he moved to Argentinos Juniors, the club that produced legends like Diego Maradona. There, Matko blossomed as a versatile midfielder who could play centrally or on the left, showcasing refined touch and excellent vision.
As a teenager, Miljevic faced the dilemmas common to dual-nationality prospects. Eligible to represent the United States, Argentina, Croatia, and even Bosnia and Herzegovina, he initially chose the U.S. youth national teams. In 2017, he played five matches for the U.S. U-16s without scoring but gaining invaluable experience. His Croatian passport (still in process at the time) opened doors to European soccer, yet Matko always prioritized development in South America.
First Professional Steps: Debut with Argentinos Juniors
The jump to professional soccer came early. In 2018, at just 17, Matko made his senior debut for Argentinos Juniors in Argentina’s Primera División against Talleres de Córdoba. Though the team lost 1-0, the kid from Miami flashed potential with quick dribbling and precise passing. Over three seasons, he appeared in six matches and scored one goal—modest numbers, but enough to catch international eyes.
His first professional goal, scored in 2019 against Patronato, was iconic: a long-range rocket that silenced the stadium and celebrated his multicultural heritage. Off the field, Matko stood out for his discipline. A black-belt in taekwondo, he brought martial-arts focus and injury-prevention habits into soccer. In interviews from that era, he often cited his Croatian grandfather as inspiration: “He fled war to build a new life; I play to honor that.”
Those early years were all about learning. Argentinos Juniors, famous for its youth academy, prepared him for the next big leap. In 2021, at age 20, the opportunity came to head north—back to the United States and Major League Soccer.
MLS Adventure: Challenges and Growth at CF Montréal
In August 2021, CF Montréal announced Miljevic’s signing as a free agent on a contract through 2024 with an option for 2025. The Canadian MLS club saw him as a creative midfield reinforcement. “We’re excited about the project, especially knowing several MLS clubs were interested,” said sporting director Olivier Renard at the time.
Back in North America, Matko reconnected with his Miami roots. In 35 appearances for Montréal, he scored two goals and provided assists that lit up key matches. His debut, ironically, came against Inter Miami. He quickly adapted to the physical pace of MLS, though injuries and competition limited his minutes. In 2023, knee surgery sidelined him for 8–12 weeks, testing his resilience.
Off the pitch, controversy struck. In 2024, Montréal terminated his contract after he participated (under a pseudonym) in an amateur indoor futsal league in Quebec, breaching the standard player agreement. An on-field altercation worsened the situation. Despite the setback, Matko framed it as a lesson: “Mistakes happen; what matters is growing from them.”
Return to Argentina: From Newell’s to Huracán
Released as a free agent in February 2024, Miljevic returned to Argentina and signed with Newell’s Old Boys. In 22 appearances, he scored twice and showed consistency. His short-dribbling, peripheral vision, and accurate finishing fit perfectly into Rosario’s tactical style. But destiny had more in store: on January 1, 2025, he left Newell’s and, ten days later, was unveiled at Huracán.
The three-year deal with El Globo (until December 2027) included the purchase of 50% of his economic rights. His market value hovered around €5 million, according to Transfermarkt. In 2025, Matko exploded: 34 matches, seven goals, and decisive assists. Highlights include a stunning long-range “golazo” against Boca Juniors in July that sealed a 1-0 win at La Bombonera, and two assists in a 3-1 Copa Sudamericana victory over Racing de Montevideo in May that helped Huracán top Group C with 10 points.
His impact under coach Frank Kudelka has been undeniable. In November, he earned a 7.1 Sofascore rating for an assist in a 1-1 draw with Barracas Central. Against his former club Newell’s on November 3, he scored the winner in a 3-1 victory.
International Career: Answering the USMNT Call
National-team allegiance remained an open chapter. After years in the U.S. youth setup, Miljevic earned his senior U.S. debut in January 2025 under Mauricio Pochettino. In a friendly against Venezuela on January 19, he came off the bench and scored the third goal in a 3-1 win alongside Jack McGlynn and Patrick Agyemang. “It felt surreal to come home and represent the country where I was born,” he said afterward.
In February against Costa Rica, he picked up a yellow card in the 73rd minute of a 1-0 victory but solidified his place. With two caps and one goal, the press sees him as an unpredictable “wildcard” thanks to his taekwondo background and fearless style. In April, Bosnia explored a possible switch using his grandfather’s roots, but Matko stayed loyal to the Stars and Stripes.
Playing Style and Personal Achievements
Miljevic, a right-footed 5’9″ (1.76 m) attacking midfielder, wears the iconic No. 10 at Huracán. His strengths are creativity—killer passes, mid-range shots, and the ability to unbalance defenses. Achievements include topping Copa Sudamericana Group C and earning Pochettino’s praise for his character during penalty discussions.
Off the pitch, he’s reserved. He speaks English, Spanish, and basic Croatian, and supports immigrant causes in Argentina.
2025 Updates: Rumors and a Bright Future
2025 has been Matko’s year. In June, Brazilian club Santos offered $1.8 million, but Huracán rejected it. Al Wahda (UAE) and RC Lens (France) made inquiries in October. His transfer value now ranges from €3.2–4.8 million.
In the USMNT, some compare him to Diego Luna, with heated takes flying on social media. With the 2026 World Cup—co-hosted by the United States—on the horizon, Miljevic could be a key piece. His November performance against Newell’s (four shots, one goal, high ESPN rating) showed exactly why he’s indispensable.
Conclusion: A Player Without Borders
Matko Miljevic transcends borders. From Miami to Buenos Aires, from injuries to glory, his story is one of perseverance. At Huracán, he doesn’t just play—he inspires: an American conquering South America. At 24, the sky is the limit. Whether in MLS, Argentina, or with the national team, Miljevic proves that talent needs no passport. In 2025, he is not just a player; he is a global symbol of overcoming odds.
