Report: Liverpool Midfielder Stefan Bajcetic Set to Make Huge Decision | OneFootball

Stefan Bajcetic: Future at Crossroads as National Decision Looms

Liverpool’s young prodigy, Stefan Bajcetic, is on the brink of a defining decision in his career, with choices that could shape his international future and long-term trajectory. Bajcetic, a Spanish midfielder with Serbian heritage, has garnered interest from both Spain and Serbia’s national teams, setting up a dilemma that reflects both his immense promise and his career challenges.

Bajcetic’s Early Rise and Injury Setback

Bajcetic first gained significant attention during the 2022/23 season with Liverpool. His dynamic presence and composure, impressive for his age, were showcased across 19 appearances in various competitions. He seemed destined to become a crucial figure in Liverpool’s evolving midfield, blending youthful energy with an intuitive sense of positioning and control.

Photo: IMAGO

Yet, the subsequent 2023/24 season presented a tough setback. An unfortunate adductor injury in March sidelined him for much of the season, interrupting his momentum and limiting him to just three appearances. The frustration of physical growth concerns compounded his journey, marking a challenging phase for the young midfielder. Recognizing his need for regular playing time to recover fully, Liverpool arranged a loan move to Red Bull Salzburg for the 2024/25 season.

Salzburg Struggles: Bajcetic’s Mixed Start

The move to Salzburg was a strategic one, placing Bajcetic under the guidance of former Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders, now Salzburg’s head coach. This setup seemed ideal for his growth. However, Bajcetic has faced a rocky start in Austria. After Salzburg’s disheartening 5-0 loss to Sturm Graz, local media outlets like Kronen Zeitung voiced strong criticism, highlighting the challenges Bajcetic has encountered. Adding to the scrutiny, he was fined for lateness ahead of a Champions League match, suggesting possible adjustments still needed for the professional demands abroad.

Despite the hurdles, Bajcetic remains focused, aware that consistency at Salzburg could reinvigorate his standing at Liverpool and fortify his position as a national team prospect.

Spain or Serbia? The National Team Dilemma

Bajcetic’s international eligibility is a unique advantage. With his father being a former Serbian footballer and his mother Spanish, Bajcetic can represent either Spain or Serbia. Up to now, he has chosen Spain, making appearances for Spain’s U18 and U21 squads, reflecting his attachment to his birthplace and upbringing. Spain’s Royal Football Federation (RFEF) first secured him for the U21 side in March 2023, aiming to block Serbia’s senior squad’s approach at the time.

Photo: IMAGO

Recently, however, Serbia renewed its interest, particularly given his exclusion from Spain’s latest U21 squad. Serbia appears ready to make another push, hoping to sway him with an opportunity in their senior setup. AS.com recently reported that if Bajcetic is again overlooked by Spain in upcoming call-ups, Serbia intends to approach him by next March.

Despite Serbia’s allure, Bajcetic has always expressed a preference for Spain, once stating that representing Spain’s U21s felt like a natural decision, given his formative years in the country. Yet, with the possibility of playing for a senior national side on the horizon, Bajcetic faces a decision that could significantly impact his international career.

The Liverpool Factor: Arne Slot’s Perspective

From a club standpoint, Liverpool is likely watching this development closely. Manager Arne Slot, who took over in May 2024, could benefit from Bajcetic’s increased international exposure and growth, especially if the midfielder returns to Anfield with more experience. Slot’s system, which values young players and positional versatility, could find a crucial role for Bajcetic, depending on his evolution during his loan spell and his eventual decision on national representation.

A potential return to Liverpool with a solid international profile could help him command a place in the first team, adding depth to Liverpool’s midfield as they transition into a new era post-Klopp. For Bajcetic, a future with Liverpool and a definitive decision on his national team alignment could serve as the dual pillars for his career’s next phase.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, Bajcetic’s journey and this national decision bring a mix of excitement and concern. Bajcetic’s struggles at Salzburg may feel unsettling, but the Reds faithful know the potential he showed when he broke into Liverpool’s squad. Under Arne Slot’s watchful eye, the hope is that Bajcetic’s time in Austria is simply a temporary blip on his path to becoming a central figure at Anfield.

When it comes to his international future, Liverpool fans might lean towards him choosing Spain, a decision that would align with the player’s sentiments and his connection to Spanish football culture. Yet, should he opt for Serbia, fans could find solace in the fact that his exposure to senior international football could bolster his maturity and readiness for the Premier League. Ultimately, the fanbase wishes for Bajcetic to make a choice that aligns with his aspirations and potential, providing Liverpool with a young, dynamic talent ready to thrive under Slot’s guidance.