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Bosnia Coach Sergej Barbarez Blames Newcastle for Amar Dedic's Hamstring Setback

Bosnia and Herzegovina coach Sergej Barbarez has voiced frustration at Newcastle United after defender Amar Dedic worsened a hamstring injury while playing against Leeds. The full-back now faces an extended absence due to this aggravated issue.

Dedic’s Injury Situation and Club Decisions

Dedic, who had started his time at St James’ Park brightly, suffered a recurring problem that first appeared in a Carabao Cup match versus Millwall earlier this month. Newcastle's medical team seemed hopeful initially, but fielding him again in the Premier League clash against Leeds backfired badly. He lasted just 58 minutes before having to leave the game, which Barbarez believes jeopardized his availability for Bosnia’s current international fixtures.

Barbarez Details Recovery and Frustrations

At a Sarajevo press briefing, Barbarez described the injury as more severe than the initial strain and implied that if Newcastle had rested Dedic for the Leeds match, he might have been ready to join the national squad. Barbarez said:

"I want to explain some technical details about Amar Dedic’s injury. He renewed it against Leeds and the damage is worse than before. If he had rested that game, he’d definitely be with us now. Such things happen. He will be out for three or four weeks and won’t be ready for these four games."

Squad Adjustments Amid Injuries

Barbarez also shared bad news about midfielder Kenan Busuladzic, who faces around nine months out following a major knee injury involving torn cruciate ligaments. To cope with absences, Barbarez called up four new players to keep the team competitive during the Nations League matches.

  • Benjamin Tahirovic
  • Ajdin Hasic
  • Arjan Malic
  • Luka Duric – noted for his progress at Paderborn in Germany’s second division

Barbarez commented on Duric’s inclusion:

"We invited Benjamin Tahirovic, Ajdin Hasic, Arjan Malic, and Luka Duric from Paderborn. He’s made career strides playing in the Bundesliga. Although the season start wasn’t perfect, we want to see him in action so he can become part of our team."

Positive Update on Juventus Talent Kerim Alajbegovic

Amid the setbacks, there was encouraging news about Juventus youngster Kerim Alajbegovic. After being substituted at half-time due to hip pain during a match against Atalanta, Barbarez reassured fans about his condition following talks with Juventus medical staff.

"We spoke with Alajbegovic last night. He’s slightly injured, felt hip pain. Juventus doctors checked him, and he’s traveling to Sarajevo. He might rest a day or two but nothing serious," said Barbarez.

Upcoming Matches

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

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