Kalajdzic' comeback: The big dream of starting the World Cup with Austria!

Kalajdzic' comeback: The big dream of starting the World Cup with Austria!

August 13, 2025 seems to be a landmark date for Sasa Kalajdzic. After a long period of trouble with injuries, the 28-year-old Austrian striker is about to make his comeback at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Kalajdzic, who drew attention as one of the Bundesliga's top scorers in the 2020/21 season, has big plans for the upcoming Premier League season and his sights firmly set on the 2026 World Cup.

The last few years have truly been a roller coaster ride for the Viennese native. After a total of three serious knee injuries, including multiple cruciate ligament tears, he missed more games than he played. In the last six years, his operational time has been severely limited - a circumstance that represents an immense challenge, both physically and mentally. Despite these setbacks, Kalajdzic never lost his passion for football and says he never thought of giving up. His family, especially his wife Lorena and his son Aleksandar, were a great support to him during these difficult times, as suedtirolnews reports.

Believe in your own strength

Kalajdzic currently has full confidence in his body and appears to be well on the way to full recovery. He has taken part in all friendlies as a substitute and is ready to make his mark in the Wolverhampton squad. Reports about a possible loan to Serie A promoted Cremonese are also doing the rounds, but Kalajdzic has clear goals in mind: He wants to play regularly and draw attention to himself through performance in order to be able to recommend himself for the ÖFB team. “I need minutes and good performances to be in the discussion for the 2026 World Cup,” explains Kalajdzic, as Kurier reports.

The psychological aspects of his return could also be crucial. Sports psychology plays an essential role in returning to work after injuries. Factors such as fear, insecurities and the restoration of self-confidence should not be underestimated. As described in an article on die-sportpsychologen.de, support in the rehabilitation phase is important in order to increase self-efficacy and overcome setbacks. Kalajdzic has already mastered these challenges very well.

The way back to the square

Kalajdzic is optimistic about the future. The former ÖFB team striker scored a total of 22 goals and 12 assists during his time in Germany before moving to Wolverhampton. His reintegration into the team could be the first step towards great success. “There is no shortcut back – I have to work hard,” he emphasizes. In the Premier League he not only hopes for sporting success, but also the opportunity to be on the pitch for his country again.

Confidence in your own abilities and the support of family and friends are the key to mastering psychological challenges elegantly. Kalajdzic is ready to start the season full of vigor. Maybe we'll soon see the talent that once shook up the Bundesliga again. The first steps have been taken and the fans are eagerly awaiting the return of the ‘Swabian’.

It remains to be seen whether his path will lead him to great success again - but football is happy to have a fighter like Sasa Kalajdzic back on the pitch.