Bosnia Coach Sergej Barbarez Blames Newcastle for Amar Dedic’s Worsened Hamstring Injury

Bosnia and Herzegovina manager Sergej Barbarez voiced his disappointment with Newcastle United after defender Amar Dedic aggravated a hamstring injury during a Premier League match against Leeds United. The setback means Dedic faces an extended spell away from the pitch.

Dedic’s Injury Escalates After Being Played Too Soon

Dedic, who had a promising start at St James' Park, first showed signs of the hamstring problem in a Carabao Cup game against Millwall earlier this month. Despite the initial injury, Newcastle's medical team cleared him to play against Leeds, a choice that backfired as Dedic lasted just 58 minutes before leaving the field. This decision has led to criticism from Barbarez, who believes the player should have rested.

Barbarez Details Injury Severity and Impact on National Team

Speaking at a press conference in Sarajevo, Barbarez described the injury as more serious than initially thought. He said the damage sustained against Leeds was worse than the original strain versus Millwall. As a result, Dedic won’t be available for Bosnia’s upcoming matches against Poland, Romania, and Sweden.

"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 said.

More Absences Shake Bosnia Squad

Dedic is not the only player missing; Barbarez also revealed that midfielder Kenan Busuladzic suffered a severe knee injury, tearing his cruciate ligaments. Busuladzic is expected to be out for around nine months, delivering another blow to the team’s plans.

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

Fresh Faces Called Up Amid Injuries

To manage these absences, Barbarez brought four new players into the squad: Benjamin Tahirovic, Ajdin Hasic, Arjan Malic, and Luka Duric. Duric’s inclusion stands out given his recent progress playing in Germany’s second division for Paderborn.

"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," said Barbarez.

Positive Update on Juventus Talent Kerim Alajbegovic

While injuries loom large, there was good news regarding young Juventus player Kerim Alajbegovic. Though he left early in a match due to hip pain, Barbarez confirmed the issue is minor and unlikely to cause long-term absence.

"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 stated.

Upcoming Matches for Bosnia and Herzegovina

• 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