Liverpool’s Dilemma with Stefan Bajcetic’s Future

Stefan Bajcetic’s career at Liverpool has been marked by both promise and misfortune, with injuries hindering his ability to establish himself in the first team. Despite breaking through in 2022, the 21-year-old midfielder has found it difficult to maintain consistency, leaving many to question what the future holds for him at Anfield.

Setbacks in Bajcetic’s Liverpool Career

After an eye-catching breakthrough under former manager Jürgen Klopp, Bajcetic seemed to have the potential to be a mainstay in Liverpool’s midfield. However, a series of injuries have prevented him from building on that early success. In an attempt to regain form and fitness, the Spaniard was loaned out to Red Bull Salzburg last season. Unfortunately, his spell in Austria was far from ideal, and Bajcetic returned to Liverpool in January after just a few months.

A second loan move, this time to Las Palmas in Spain’s La Liga, showed more promise. Bajcetic delivered strong performances for the Canary Islanders, even though his efforts couldn’t save the club from relegation. With his return to full fitness expected in the off-season, there was hope that he could find his place in Liverpool’s squad. However, it seems that those hopes are gradually fading.

Arne Slot’s Lack of Faith in Bajcetic

Arne Slot, who took over as Liverpool manager in the summer of 2024, has made it clear that he doesn’t view Bajcetic as part of his plans moving forward. Trusted Liverpool reporter David Lynch shared his thoughts with Anfield Index, suggesting that the midfielder’s days at Anfield could be numbered.

“I would forget about that now, to be honest,” Lynch stated, speaking about Bajcetic’s prospects of re-entering the first-team fold. “I don’t think he will, certainly under this manager. The injuries have robbed him of an awful lot of football at a really important time in his career.”

A Permanent Departure on the Cards?

It appears that Liverpool has made its decision regarding Bajcetic’s future, and unfortunately for the young Spaniard, it may not include a return to the first team. While there was optimism about his fitness, it seems that the club’s long-term plans no longer feature Bajcetic. Lynch noted that the midfielder could either go on loan again or possibly leave permanently if the right offer comes in.

As Liverpool prepares for the January transfer window, Bajcetic’s situation will be something to watch closely. While a loan move to clubs like Valencia or Celta Vigo failed to materialise over the summer, his ongoing recovery may prompt fresh interest in the coming months.

Bajcetic’s Return to Training

Recent reports suggest that Bajcetic is back in training at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre, focusing on regaining match fitness. The midfielder’s ability to get back to full health will be crucial in determining his next move, whether that’s at Liverpool or elsewhere.

As the January window looms, Liverpool and Arne Slot will need to decide if Bajcetic has a future at the club or if his time at Anfield is finally coming to an end.