Ciao Rale! Petar Ratkov moves to Serie A

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FC Red Bull Salzburg

·8 January 2026

Ciao Rale! Petar Ratkov moves to Serie A

22-year-old Serb joins Lazio

Petar Ratkov is leaving FC Red Bull Salzburg and moving to Italy's Serie A, signing a contract with Lazio.

The 22-year-old striker joined the Red Bulls from Serbian club FK TSC Backa Topola in the summer of 2023.

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During his two and a half years in Salzburg, the tall forward, who also became a Serbian international in his time here, made a total of 99 appearances, scoring 22 goals and providing 15 assists. A particular highlight was his lightning-fast opening goal against FC Blau-Weiß Linz after just six seconds.

Rale is now moving to the ninth-placed team in the Italian top flight.

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Petar has developed exceptionally well in Salzburg, especially over the last six months, and has been an important part of our team. It's understandable that he now wants to take the opportunity to move to one of the top leagues. The goals we will be without as a consequence shouldn't be underestimated, so everyone will be challenged to compensate for that. We wish Petar all the best and continued success at his new club and in his future sporting endeavours.

Marcus Mann, Managing Director for Sport

My years in Salzburg were wonderful ones. I learned a lot as a footballer and as a person, and experienced some truly special moments. I think now is the right time for me to take the next step. Lazio offers me a fantastic opportunity. For a final word, I want to thank my teammates, coaches, the entire staff, and the fans for their support. Goodbye Salzburg!

Petar Ratkov