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Return From Spain Marred by Setback
Stefan Bajcetic’s return to Liverpool was supposed to mark a fresh start. After a promising loan spell at Las Palmas, the 19-year-old midfielder appeared to be regaining rhythm, maturity and valuable first-team experience. However, optimism around his progress has been tempered by a fresh injury concern that threatens to disrupt his pre-season involvement under Arne Slot.
Initially loaned out to RB Salzburg at the start of the year, Bajcetic was recalled midway through the campaign following the dismissal of Pep Lijnders. He found a new temporary home in La Liga with Las Palmas, where his performances earned plaudits. That encouraging run was interrupted on 15 May, during a league clash with Sevilla, when he limped off shortly after half-time. It has now emerged that the injury was more serious than initially feared.
Surgery Confirmed by Specialist, Not Club
In a surprising turn, Liverpool chose not to officially disclose the extent of the injury or the subsequent surgery. Instead, confirmation came from Dr Lasse Lempainen, an orthopaedic surgeon based in Finland, who shared a message of support for Bajcetic via Instagram.
“Good luck with your recovery, Stefan,” the surgeon posted, accompanied by an image of the Spaniard. Dr Lempainen is widely respected in the world of sports medicine, known for his expertise in lower limb injuries, particularly hamstring repairs. His CV includes successful recoveries of elite athletes, and his involvement suggests that Liverpool are treating Bajcetic’s setback with the utmost seriousness.
Injury Poses Timing Problem for Slot’s Plans
The timing is far from ideal. Liverpool are fresh off a title-winning campaign that saw them secure the Premier League crown with four games to spare. Despite a slight late-season dip in form, Arne Slot’s side were relentless for much of the season, with Bajcetic viewed as a potential piece in the next phase of the club’s evolution.
With new signings like Jeremie Frimpong and Armin Pecsi already arriving at Anfield, and further additions such as Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez still in the frame, Liverpool’s midfield options are set to be fiercely competitive. Bajcetic’s blend of composure and ball-winning instinct would have offered Slot another dimension. Now, there is uncertainty over whether he will be ready for the early fixtures, let alone pre-season preparations.
Long-Term Hope Despite Short-Term Frustration
This latest injury is a frustrating moment for a player who burst onto the scene with such promise. But Bajcetic remains highly rated inside the club. His ability to dictate tempo and play under pressure has drawn comparisons with senior midfielders, and Liverpool will be keen to manage his recovery with caution.
As it stands, Bajcetic faces a race against time to be ready for Liverpool’s pre-season fixtures. With the Dutchman Arne Slot preparing to build on last season’s success, every player will be striving to impress in training. The Spaniard’s fight now is not only to regain fitness but to remind Liverpool why he remains such an exciting prospect.
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