Vitezslav Jaros, currently on loan from Liverpool at Sturm Graz, is experiencing a highly successful season. Since joining the Austrian club in January, Jaros has made his debut in the UEFA Conference League, reached the Austrian Cup final, and is currently competing for the Austrian Bundesliga title. Additionally, he received his first senior international call-up for Czechia.
Jaros trained with Czechia’s senior squad during the March international break in preparation for friendlies against Armenia and Norway. Although he did not play, he cherished the experience and described it as a proud moment. At 22 years old, Jaros is at a crucial juncture in his career. Having spent almost seven years at Liverpool, he has previously been loaned to St Patrick’s Athletic, Stockport County, and Notts County.
This current loan spell at Sturm Graz feels different for Jaros. He joined a team that had drawn 2-2 with Atalanta in the Europa League group stage earlier in the season. As the club’s number one goalkeeper, he is gaining valuable playing time and making an impression. The loan has provided him with the opportunity to focus on enjoying football in a competitive league. In the UEFA Conference League, Jaros helped Sturm Graz reach the round of 16, producing impressive performances against Slovan Bratislava and Lille.
Despite being away from Liverpool, Jaros maintains contact with the club’s goalkeeping staff, particularly John Achterberg. They communicate after every game, with Achterberg offering feedback on Jaros’ performance. The Liverpool staff is pleased with his progress at Sturm Graz.
Looking ahead, there are still significant challenges for Jaros and Sturm Graz. The club currently sits three points ahead of Red Bull Salzburg at the top of the Austrian Bundesliga with three games remaining. Additionally, they will face Rapid Wien in the Austrian Cup final on May 1, aiming to defend their title from last season.
Jaros is relishing the experience at Sturm Graz, particularly the opportunity to play in front of their passionate fans. He describes every game as feeling like a big occasion due to the lively atmosphere. With only a month left of the season, his focus is on performing well and seeing where it leads him.
Jaros remains determined to succeed with Sturm Graz and has an added motivation to be selected for Czechia’s senior squad for Euro 2024. Although he acknowledges the possibility of not playing, he believes the team is strong and ready to compete with the best.
As for his future beyond this season, only time will reveal what lies ahead for Jaros.