Esmir Bajraktarevic Is "Really Excited" To Possibly Make USMNT Debut On Saturday

Esmir Bajraktarevic: “It puts a smile on my face, because I'm really excited for it on Saturday.”

Photo Courtesy of J. Alexander Dolan

Esmir Bajraktarevic was smiling ear-to-ear when he was asked about the possibility of suiting up for the U.S. Men’s National Team this weekend.

Bajraktarevic has worn the crest before at youth levels, but to be on the field with the senior team would be something special.

“It puts a smile on my face, because I'm really excited for it on Saturday,” Bajraktarevic said. “Obviously, Slovenia will be a good test as well. The main thing is just getting the three points, but yeah, I'm really looking forward to the moment that I make my debut. It'll be really exciting.”

Bajraktarevic will have the opportunity to do that on Saturday when the USMNT hosts Slovenia at 3 p.m. EST.

The midfielder has spent over a week looking to make an impression on head coach Gregg Berhalter. It’s an experience that he’s enjoyed, noting, “I think [Berhalter] has big expectations for me and the whole team. We want to get a win on Saturday.”

The 18-year-old is the youngest player in camp, but that hasn’t stopped him from making an impact.

In a scrimmage against the River Plate U-23s, Bajraktarevic collected a goal and assist. The game ultimately ended 2-2.

“Obviously River Plate is a really good team, very physical, so it was a good test for us,” Bajraktarevic said. “Obviously scoring is a great feeling. I would say the level was pretty good. It was really fast. I think it’s good to prepare us for the game on Saturday.”

Bajraktarevic has had some familiar company during camp since Revs teammate DeJuan Jones is also there.

Jones noted that the two have regularly eaten meals together and that he’s appreciated getting to know Bajraktarevic on a “deeper level.”

Having had plenty of opportunities to see what the “Milwaukee Messi” can do, Jones is hoping Bajraktarevic gets an opportunity to showcase his talent this weekend.

“I'm excited for the game Saturday so [Bajraktarevic ] can show everyone what we see every day in training at the Revs,” Jones said. “Super happy for him. He's taking advantage of this opportunity, and yeah, I think it's going be a really big year for him as well.”

While Bajraktarevic is overjoyed to be part of the U.S. system, he also has deep ties to Bosnia. As such, he hasn’t officially made his decision regarding where his international future lies.

“I haven’t made my final decision yet,” Bajraktarevic said. “Obviously Bosnia is very close to my heart. I speak the language. I grew up in a Bosnian household so Bosnia is a big part of me.”

“I haven’t made my decision yet, my final decision on who I want to play for yet. Right now I’m still very young and just keeping my eyes open to every opportunity in front of me and just doing what’s best for me.”

Saturday’s opportunity is a big one, but there are many more on the horizon.

Bajraktarevic has recently made waves with the U.S. U-23s and is eligible for the next two Olympics.

At the club level, the Revs have a new head coach. Bajraktarevic said he’s had conversations with Caleb Porter and has “heard great things about him” from the players back in Foxboro.

In sum, Bajraktarevic has been working hard to make 2024 a good one.

“I think this offseason was a big thing for me, especially going with the U-23s in November, just getting better every single day,” Bajraktarevic said. “Reflecting on this season, I think I learned a lot this season. A lot of ups, a lot of downs, and I think it's been really good for me and I'm excited for the next season for sure. I think it’s going to be really good.”