Liverpool midfielder Stefan Bajcetic has sent an emotional apology to Las Palmas fans following the side’s relegation from La Liga.
The 20-year-old has spent the second half of the season on loan at the Spanish club, playing in 15 of its last 16 matches. He previously played for Austrian side Red Bull Salzburg during the first part of the campaign, before switching in January due to a lack of playing time.
Despite the best efforts of Bajcetic and his teammates, the midweek La Liga results ensured Las Palmas will play in the Segunda Division next season, along with Real Valladolid. Las Palmas lost 1-0 to Sevilla on Tuesday, a day before 17th-placed Deportivo Alaves earned a 1-0 victory over Valencia, a result that consigned Bajcetic and Co to relegation.
“These are tough days for everyone, but especially for you, the fans,” the on-loan midfielder
as the news was confirmed.
“We haven’t been able to achieve our goal of staying in the league you deserve. In four months, I’ve realised how much this club’s fans love, and it pains me deeply to have let you down.
“I’m sure you’ll return to where this club belongs, and I’ll always be cheering you on as one of your own.
“Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for all the support and for always being there.”
(Image: UD Las Palmas – YouTube)
President Miguel Angel Ramirez took responsibility for the club’s relegation, promising an exciting season next term, and apologized to fans at a press conference.
“Starting today, we begin preparing for a new season, which we will face with renewed enthusiasm and the desire, as always, to count on the support of the great yellow family,” Angel Ramirez wrote on X.
Despite Las Palmas’ relegation, Bajcetic has enjoyed a positive campaign, playing regular minutes for the first time since the midpart of the 2022/23 season under Jurgen Klopp.
So highly thought of was Bajcetic at the time, the academy graduate started in midfield against Real Madrid in a Champions League knockout tie, and played in eight consecutive Premier League matches.
But injuries have stalled his development and the Spanish youth international played just three senior matches last term. His loan spell in Salzburg didn’t have the effect most hoped for, with Bajcetic struggling to hold down a place in the side and starting just one of the club’s eight Champions League matches.
He is set to return to Anfield this summer after his stint in the Canary Islands and Arne Slot will make a decision on his immediate future in pre-season. Reports have indicated he could play a role in the Dutchman’s squad next season.
