Radovan Pankov to Leave Legia Warsaw: Serbian Defender Bids Emotional Farewell

WARSAW — Radovan Pankov, a cornerstone of Legia Warsaw’s defense for the past three seasons, will leave the Polish Ekstraklasa club this summer, ending a chapter that saw him grow one of the team’s most reliable performers. The 30-year-old Serbian defender announced his departure in an emotional statement published Tuesday on the club’s official website, Legia.net, thanking fans for their unwavering support while confirming his exit at the complete of the 2025/26 campaign.

“Dear Legia fans, I announce that this summer I will leave Legia,” Pankov wrote. “This decision was very difficult for me and my family, but I had no other choice. From your beautiful city and club, I take only the best memories, and one of the most important is you—the fans. I felt respected and loved. Thank you for your support, and see you at the last upcoming matches.” His farewell comes just days after Legia’s sporting director, Michał Żewłakow, publicly expressed the club’s desire to retain him following a match against Lech Poznań.

Pankov’s departure marks the end of a successful stint in Warsaw, where he established himself as a key figure in manager Marek Papszun’s three-man defensive system. Since joining Legia in January 2023, the Serbian has made 56 league appearances, scoring three goals, and was a near-ever-present in the starting XI during the 2025/26 season. His only absence this year came in a match against Wisła Płock due to yellow card accumulation, underscoring his importance to the team’s backline.

From Vojvodina to Warsaw: Pankov’s Journey to Legia

Born on August 5, 1995, in Novi Sad, Serbia, Radovan Pankov began his professional career at Vojvodina, where he rose through the youth ranks alongside future stars like Sergej Milinković-Savić and Mijat Gaćinović. His talent was evident early, and he made his senior debut for Vojvodina in May 2014, later participating in the club’s memorable 2015/16 UEFA Europa League campaign, which included a historic 4-0 away win against Sampdoria.

Pankov’s career took him across Europe before landing in Poland. After stints in Russia (Ural Yekaterinburg), Cyprus (AEK Larnaca on loan), and Serbia (Radnički Niš and Red Star Belgrade), he joined Legia Warsaw in January 2023. His time at Red Star Belgrade was particularly notable, as he made 80 appearances for the Serbian giants, winning multiple domestic titles before a loan spell at Čukarički paved the way for his move to Warsaw.

Internationally, Pankov represented Serbia at the youth level, winning the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand. While he has yet to earn a senior cap for Serbia, his experience and leadership at the club level have made him a respected figure in European football.

Legia’s Efforts to Retain Pankov: A Transfer Saga

Legia Warsaw had hoped to extend Pankov’s stay, with sporting director Michał Żewłakow confirming the club’s intentions in a post-match interview on Canal+ Sport. “We very much wanted to preserve Radovan Pankov at Legia Warsaw,” Żewłakow said. However, he acknowledged the challenges, citing the player’s expectations and competing offers from other clubs. Reports in Polish media, including PiłkaNożna.pl, suggest Pankov could be headed to Japan, though no official announcement has been made regarding his next destination.

The timing of Pankov’s departure aligns with broader changes in Legia’s squad. Media outlets have speculated about a potential transfer involving Zoran Arsenić from Raków Częstochowa, with some suggesting the Croatian defender could replace Pankov in Papszun’s system. However, Legia has not confirmed any incoming transfers, and the club’s focus remains on finishing the current season strong.

What’s Next for Pankov and Legia?

For Pankov, the next chapter of his career remains uncertain, though his track record suggests he will continue to play at a high level. His versatility as a center-back and right-back, combined with his experience in European competitions, makes him an attractive prospect for clubs in leagues across Europe and Asia.

Legia Warsaw, meanwhile, faces the task of rebuilding its defense ahead of the 2026/27 season. The club has a history of developing young talent and making strategic signings, and Pankov’s departure could open the door for emerging players or new transfers to step into his role. Fans will have the chance to bid him a final farewell in Legia’s remaining home matches of the season.

Fan Reactions and Legacy in Warsaw

Pankov’s announcement has sparked an outpouring of support from Legia fans, who have taken to social media to express their gratitude and wish him well. His professionalism, consistency, and connection with the supporters have made him a beloved figure at the Stadion Wojska Polskiego, where he has been a key part of the team’s recent successes.

In his farewell statement, Pankov emphasized the impact the fans had on his time in Warsaw. “I felt respected and loved,” he wrote. “Thank you for your support, and see you at the last upcoming matches.” His words reflect the deep bond he formed with the Legia community, one that will endure even after his departure.

Key Takeaways

• Departure Confirmed: Radovan Pankov will leave Legia Warsaw at the end of the 2025/26 season, as announced in his emotional farewell statement on Legia.net.
• Legia’s Efforts: The club, through sporting director Michał Żewłakow, had expressed a desire to retain Pankov, but competing offers and the player’s personal decision made his exit inevitable.
• Career Highlights: Pankov made 56 league appearances for Legia, scoring three goals, and was a near-ever-present in the 2025/26 season. He previously played for Vojvodina, Red Star Belgrade, and Ural Yekaterinburg, among others.
• Fan Favorite: Pankov’s professionalism and connection with Legia’s supporters have made him a beloved figure in Warsaw.
• Uncertain Future: While reports suggest Pankov could move to Japan, no official announcement has been made regarding his next club.

What Happens Next?

Legia Warsaw will focus on its remaining matches in the 2025/26 Ekstraklasa season, with Pankov set to feature in the team’s final home games as fans bid him farewell. The club is expected to announce its transfer plans for the summer window in the coming weeks, including potential replacements for the Serbian defender.

For Pankov, the next few months will be crucial as he finalizes his next move. Whether he stays in Europe or embarks on a new adventure in Asia, his career trajectory suggests he will continue to be a valuable asset to any team he joins.

What are your thoughts on Radovan Pankov’s departure from Legia Warsaw? Share your memories of his time at the club in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow World Today Journal for the latest updates on football transfers and news.