In a different role than normal, Stefan Bajcetic made his first appearance at any level since March when he came off the bench for Spain’s U21 team.
Bajcetic’s season was cut short by an adductor injury in the second half of last year after an excellent run of starts for Liverpool’s first team.
Due to his injury, the 18-year-old was unable to participate in any of the Reds’ preseason matches in Germany.
However, Bajcetic has started on the bench for the previous three Premier League games, and his level of fitness has led to this month’s call-up to Spain’s U21 team.
In their Euro qualifying match on Friday night, Spain traveled to Malta, and manager Santi Denia viewed the occasion as a chance to incorporate Bajcetic.
Bajcetic made his debut for Spain U21s by coming off the bench with 25 minutes remaining in a 6-0 victory. It was also his first appearance at any level since Liverpool’s 1-0 loss to Bournemouth in March.
With Spain leading by four goals, he took Rafa Marin’s spot at center back instead of his usual position in the middle of the field.
It followed Denia telling AS that he believes Hugo Guillamon of Valencia, who he had previously utilized in both midfield and defense, is being emulated by Liverpool’s No. 43.
He was a center-back for the youth teams when he competed. In such situation, I believe he can provide us choices,” Denia said.
“He might be able to hold multiple positions, like Guillamon in the previous generation. He accepts that role after speaking with me.
Bajcetic had previously played center back, as Denia pointed out, having come to Merseyside in 2020 and being a natural in the position.
However, it was quickly decided to send the young player higher up the field than he had previously been used to at Celta Vigo, and he is now seen as capable of playing at both No. 6 and No. 8.
His versatility will surely be helpful in the future, and he may even be able to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold in the playmaking right-back position.
His comeback from injury is currently the biggest plus, and he will have another opportunity to play on Monday when Spain takes on Ben Doak’s Scotland.