Radoja Čolak: A Professional Football Journey Across Europe and the USA
From the youth academies of Serbia to the competitive pitches of Spain and the United States, Radoja has carved out a diverse professional football career. Born in Novi Sad and raised in Veternik, his path into the sport was inspired by his older brother, Stefan, leading him to join the youth setup of FK Vojvodina.
Early Career and Breakthrough at Vojvodina
Radoja's professional ascent began in the summer of 2011 when he was promoted to the Vojvodina first team. To gain essential experience, he spent time on loan with third-tier clubs ČSK Čelarevo and Cement Beočin. His commitment to the club was solidified on March 8, 2012, when he signed a five-year professional contract.
He made his professional debut on August 18, 2012, appearing as a late substitute in a 1–0 away win against Spartak. A defining moment in his early career occurred on April 17, 2013, when he scored the only goal for Vojvodina in a 1–1 Serbian Cup semifinal draw against OFK Beograd. This goal was pivotal, as it secured a 2–1 aggregate victory and propelled the club into the finals.
During the 2012–13 campaign, Radoja became a regular fixture for "Voša" (the club's nickname), appearing in 22 matches with 16 starts. His consistent performance helped the team secure a third-place finish. He maintained his role as a starter the following season, appearing in 25 matches and earning a prestigious spot in the league's best XI.
[no image placeholder]Transition to Spanish Football: Celta and Levante
In August 2014, Radoja moved to Spain, signing a five-year contract with Celta de Vigo in La Liga, the top flight of Spanish football. He debuted on August 24, playing the final three minutes of a 3–1 home victory over Getafe.
However, his tenure at Celta ended on a complicated note. After expressing a desire to move to the English Premier League and refusing to renew his contract, Radoja did not make a single appearance during the entire 2018–19 season.
Seeking a fresh start, he remained in Spain and signed a three-year contract as a free agent with Levante on August 21, 2019.
[no image placeholder]North American Venture and Return to Spain
On October 26, 2022, Radoja transitioned to Major League Soccer (MLS) by signing with Sporting Kansas City. He remained with the club through the 2025 season, after which Kansas City opted to release him.
Radoja's journey eventually led him back to Spain. On February 13, 2026, he signed with Cultural Leonesa, competing in the Segunda División, the second-highest professional tier in the Spanish football league system.
[no image placeholder]Key Facts
- Youth Development: Graduated from the FK Vojvodina youth setup.
- Career Milestone: Scored the decisive goal to take FK Vojvodina to the Serbian Cup finals in 2013.
- Individual Honor: Selected for the league's best XI during his second full season at Vojvodina.
- International Experience: Played in Serbia (SuperLiga), Spain (La Liga and Segunda División), and the USA (MLS).
| Club | Country | Key Period/Date | Notable Detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| FK Vojvodina | Serbia | 2011–2014 | League Best XI selection |
| Celta de Vigo | Spain | 2014–2019 | La Liga debut |
| Levante | Spain | 2019–2022 | Signed as a free agent |
| Sporting Kansas City | USA | 2022–2025 | MLS tenure |
| Cultural Leonesa | Spain | 2026–Present | Segunda División return |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Radoja begin his professional football career?
Radoja began his career at FK Vojvodina in Serbia, where he progressed through the youth setup before being promoted to the first team in 2011.
Which goal was most significant during his time at Vojvodina?
His most significant goal came on April 17, 2013, against OFK Beograd in the Serbian Cup semifinal, which helped his team reach the finals.
Why did Radoja stop playing for Celta de Vigo in the 2018–19 season?
He did not appear in any matches that season after refusing a contract renewal and expressing his wish to play in the Premier League.
Which US-based club did Radoja play for?
Radoja played for Sporting Kansas City in Major League Soccer from October 2022 until the end of the 2025 season.
What is Radoja's current club as of 2026?
As of February 13, 2026, Radoja is playing for Cultural Leonesa in the Spanish Segunda División.