18-year-old Stefan Bajcetic had a breakthrough season in 2022/23, with his involvement far exceeding anything he could have imagined. After impressing for the under-18s the season prior, Bajcetic was brought on with 20 minutes of Liverpool’s 9-0 thrashing of Bournemouth still to play back in August. He grabbed his opportunity with both hands and went on to become almost undroppable in Jurgen Klopp‘s midfield. He caught the eye as Liverpool knocked Derby out of the Carabao Cup in the third round, but had to wait until after the World Cup to make his next league appearance. From then, it was full steam ahead until an unfortunate injury ended his campaign prematurely in March.
Bajcetic announced himself with the third and final goal in Liverpool’s Boxing Day win over Aston Villa, which he described as the “best moment” of his young life. Klopp’s trust in his young midfielder led to him getting 85 minutes in a monstrous Champions League showdown with Real Madrid at Anfield back in February. Bajcetic made eight consecutive league appearances, including six starts, between January and March as he initially displaced Fabinho and then shifted into the left-sided No. 8 role. His progress was rewarded with a new long-term contract in the new year to keep him at the club until 2027.
Unfortunately, Bajcetic suffered a season-ending injury in March, but he demonstrated enough quality to practically ensure he will be part of the manager’s plans upon his return. His stock has risen significantly, and he may even be a stand-in for Trent Alexander-Arnold in his new hybrid role. He will focus on making a full recovery from injury and earning more regular minutes upon his return. With age on his side, Bajcetic has a very bright future ahead.