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

Bosnia and Herzegovina manager Sergej Barbarez has voiced his frustration with Newcastle United after defender Amar Dedic worsened a hamstring injury during club action. The full-back, who had a promising start at St James' Park, now faces an extended period out following the setback.

Dedic's Injury Worsens Following Club Appearance

The player’s fitness issue first appeared in a Carabao Cup match against Millwall earlier this month. Despite hope from Newcastle's medical team, playing him again in the Premier League clash with Leeds United seemed to have aggravated the problem. Dedic lasted only 58 minutes before being substituted in that defeat, leading to his absence from Bosnia's international fixtures.

Barbarez Details the Injury and Recovery Timeline

At a Sarajevo press conference, Barbarez was clear about his disappointment regarding Newcastle’s approach. He explained that the injury sustained against Leeds was more severe than the original strain and could have been avoided if the player had rested. The coach said:

"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."

Other Key Players Also Missing for Bosnia

Barbarez also revealed troubling news about midfielder Kenan Busuladzic, whose knee injury is much worse than expected. The young player is set to miss nearly a year due to torn cruciate ligaments. Barbarez stated:

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

New Faces Called Up Amid Injury Woes

To compensate for these absences, Barbarez added four new players to the squad: Benjamin Tahirovic, Ajdin Hasic, Arjan Malic, and Luka Duric. Duric’s recent progress in Germany’s second division with Paderborn makes his inclusion notable. Barbarez commented:

"We handed out several invitations, we invited Benjamin Tahirovic, Ajdin Hasic, Arjan Malic and Luka Duric from Paderborn. He made a step forward in his career, he plays in the Bundesliga. Although the start of the season was not the most important thing, we want to see him in action so that he can be part of our team."

Positive Update on Juventus Prospect Alajbegovic

There was some good news regarding Kerim Alajbegovic of Juventus. After being taken off at half-time during a recent match versus Atalanta, concerns rose over another injury. But following medical checks in Turin and discussions with the player, 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," said the coach.

Upcoming Matches for Bosnia and Herzegovina

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