Stefan Bajcetic’s Spanish Revival: Liverpool’s Forgotten Prodigy Makes His Case for Arne Slot
As Liverpool eye the finish line in their Premier League title charge, a significant subplot is unfolding further south: the resurrection of Stefan Bajcetic. The 20-year-old midfielder, once regarded as Anfield’s emerging gem, has reignited his promise on loan at Las Palmas—drawing rapturous acclaim from the Spanish press and posing a genuine question to new Reds boss, Arne Slot: Does the answer to Liverpool’s midfield question already lie within?
Upon his arrival at Anfield, Slot appeared unconvinced by the club’s midfield depth, making overtures to acquire Martin Zubimendi last summer and ultimately sending Bajcetic out on loan. Yet, after a mixed spell at RB Salzburg—a move that stalled under the abrupt sacking of Pep Lijnders—the Spaniard’s January switch to Las Palmas has proved transformative. In just a few months, Bajcetic has shown the qualities that once tempted Barcelona to consider him, and which Liverpool may now have to reconsider themselves.
Bajcetic’s latest performance in Las Palmas’ crucial 3-1 victory away to Getafe has stirred excitement not just among Canaries’ supporters desperate for La Liga survival, but also across the Spanish football media. Javi Rolan wrote emphatically, "Bajcetic could be a starting midfielder for any team in the League.” Fellow journalist Diego Otero hailed a "superb performance", highlighting Bajcetic’s vision, game intelligence, and tenacity. Jonay Amaro added: "Physically, he’s a bull...he has the traits of a Premier League player. He’s very good on the ball, has judgment and maturity, despite his youth."
Statistics from the Getafe clash reinforce the eye test. Bajcetic boasted a team-high seven duels won, four tackles, three clearances, and two interceptions, as well as executing eight successful long passes—a reminder of both his defensive bite and creative distribution. Questions remain about his pass completion, currently at 75%, but such numbers are understandable given Las Palmas’ struggles and his own ongoing adaptation.
Yet Bajcetic’s journey has not been linear. Injury setbacks and inconsistent form—only eight appearances and just over 500 minutes in Spain this year—have tempered expectations slightly. But, as analysts like Matt Clark of La Liga Lowdown point out, his time on the pitch, whether anchoring the midfield or slotting into central defence, has only reaffirmed his versatility and suitability for Liverpool’s pressing, multi-functional system. "He fits the mold of what Slot looks for at the base of his midfield," Clark maintains. Furthermore, Bajcetic himself has spoken of Las Palmas as a haven for development: “Las Palmas is a team that plays good football and gives opportunities to players who come on loan. I think I can improve here.”
For Liverpool, the question is now sharply defined: does Arne Slot return to the transfer market—or bet on a rejuvenated homegrown talent? Bajcetic may not yet be the finished article, but his La Liga resurgence suggests he is ready for a genuine opportunity, perhaps as the rotational option behind Ryan Gravenberch in the coming season. As the Spanish press and his coaches have witnessed, the young midfielder’s blend of courage, skill, and football IQ is a rare commodity.
In a summer set for major decisions at Anfield, Stefan Bajcetic’s revival asks whether sometimes, the answers lie closer to home than first assumed. Should Liverpool trust in youth, or opt once more for the transfer market? Share your views below and join the debate.
