Bosnia Coach Sergej Barbarez Criticizes Newcastle Over Amar Dedic's Hamstring Injury

Bosnia and Herzegovina manager Sergej Barbarez has openly criticized Newcastle United following a setback involving defender Amar Dedic. The full-back aggravated a hamstring injury during a Premier League match, which now threatens to keep him out of action for weeks.

Dedic’s Injury: A Risk That Didn’t Pay Off

After showing promise early in his stint at St James' Park, Dedic suffered a recurring hamstring problem first noticed in a Carabao Cup game against Millwall. Despite initial positive signals from Newcastle’s medical team, the decision to let him play against Leeds United backfired. He lasted just 58 minutes before having to leave the pitch, and this has cost him his spot with the national team for the current international fixtures.

Barbarez Details Injury Severity and Recovery Timeline

During a press conference in Sarajevo, Barbarez was clear about his disappointment with how Newcastle handled the situation. He pointed out that the injury worsened significantly against Leeds compared to the earlier strain. The coach believes the player would have been available for international duty if he had been rested properly.

"I would like to say a few technical things regarding the extent of Amar Dedic’s injury. He renewed his injury against Leeds, the extent of the injury is greater than before. If he had rested that game, he would certainly be with us now, but such things happen. He will be absent for three or four weeks. He will not be ready for these four games," Barbarez stated.

Other Key Absences Shake Bosnia Squad

Kenan Busuladzic, another important player, faces a long recovery after tearing his cruciate ligaments. Barbarez confirmed the midfielder will likely miss nine months of action due to the severity of the injury.

"We also miss Kenan Busuladzic. He will not be in the game for nine months because he tore his cruciate ligaments," the coach shared.

To compensate, Barbarez has introduced four new players into the squad to keep it competitive during the UEFA Nations League window:

• Benjamin Tahirovic
• Ajdin Hasic
• Arjan Malic
• Luka Duric (recently playing in Germany’s second division with Paderborn)

The coach highlighted Duric's progress as a positive sign for the team’s future.

Juventus Talent Alajbegovic Brings Good News

On a brighter note, Kerim Alajbegovic from Juventus raised some initial concerns after leaving a recent match with Atalanta due to hip pain. After examinations, Barbarez eased worries about his availability.

"We spoke with Alajbegovic last night. He is slightly injured, he felt pain in his hip. Juventus doctors examined him last night and he is on his way to Sarajevo. He may take a break for a day or two, but it shouldn’t be anything special," Barbarez confirmed.

Upcoming Matches

• UEFA Nations League B: Poland vs Bosnia and Herzegovina, 25 Sept 2026, 21:45
• Premier League: Coventry City vs Newcastle United, 12 Oct 2026, 22:00