Hajradinović: A Journey Through European Football and Kasımpaşa Legend
The career of Hajradinović is a testament to perseverance and versatility, spanning multiple European leagues before finding a true home in Turkey. From his early days in the youth academies of Bosnia and Herzegovina to becoming a record-breaking figure at Kasımpaşa, his trajectory reflects the grit required to succeed in professional football.
Early Career and European Odyssey
Hajradinović began his footballing journey in the youth academy of Željezničar. He made his professional debut on May 20, 2012, at the age of 18, in a match against Kozara Gradiška. This marked the start of a period of rapid movement across Europe as the young midfielder sought the right environment to develop his skills.
Following his debut, he moved to Olimpic in June 2012, and by January 2013, he had transitioned to the Croatian league with Inter Zaprešić. His journey then took him to Slovakia, where he signed with Trenčín. It was here that he recorded his first professional goal on September 14 during a victory over Žilina.
His progress attracted attention from larger leagues, leading to a transfer to the Belgian side Gent in December 2014. In January 2016, he moved to Norway on a season-long loan with Haugesund. The Norwegian club exercised their option to make the transfer permanent the following year, providing him with stability before he moved to Osijek in August 2017.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]
Establishing a Legacy at Kasımpaşa
In January 2019, Hajradinović signed with the Turkish club Kasımpaşa on a contract running until June 2022. He wasted no time integrating into the squad, debuting in the Turkish Cup against Alanyaspor on January 17, followed by a league debut against Rizespor a week later.
His goal-scoring touch soon followed, with his first cup goal coming against Akhisarspor on February 7, and his first league goal arriving three months later in a clash against Beşiktaş. His consistency and leadership became evident over the following years, leading to a contract extension in June 2022 that secured his stay until June 2026.
By August 2022, Hajradinović was named team captain, cementing his role as the heartbeat of the squad. His longevity was officially recognized on October 22, when he played his 173rd game against Sivasspor, becoming the all-time appearance leader for Kasımpaşa. He further extended this record by reaching his 200th match for the club on April 21, 2024, against Gaziantep.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]
Overcoming Adversity
Professional sports are often defined by how athletes handle setbacks. In September 2025, Hajradinović faced a significant challenge when he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear—a severe knee injury that typically requires extensive rehabilitation. He was ruled out of action for at least six months.
Demonstrating resilience, he returned to the pitch on July 12, 2026, more than nine months after the injury. His commitment to the club remained steadfast, and in April, he signed a new two-year contract to continue his tenure with Kasımpaşa.
Key Facts
- Professional Debut: May 20, 2012, for Željezničar.
- First Professional Goal: Scored for Trenčín against Žilina on September 14.
- Kasımpaşa Record: All-time top appearance maker (surpassing 173 games).
- Milestone: Reached 200 appearances for Kasımpaşa on April 21, 2024.
- Leadership: Appointed Kasımpaşa team captain in August 2022.
- Injury Recovery: Returned from an ACL tear on July 12, 2026.
| Year/Period | Club/Event | Key Milestone |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Željezničar | Professional debut at age 18 |
| 2013 | Trenčín | First professional goal |
| 2014-2017 | Gent / Haugesund | Move to Belgium and Norway |
| 2019 | Kasımpaşa | Joined Turkish side |
| 2022 | Kasımpaşa | Named team captain |
| 2024 | Kasımpaşa | Reached 200th match |
| 2025-2026 | Recovery | ACL tear and successful return |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Hajradinović start his professional career?
He began his career at Željezničar, coming through their youth academy and making his professional debut in May 2012.
Which clubs did he play for before joining Kasımpaşa?
Before moving to Turkey, he played for Olimpic, Inter Zaprešić, Trenčín, Gent, Haugesund, and Osijek.
What is his most significant achievement at Kasımpaşa?
He is the all-time appearance leader for the club, having played over 200 matches and serving as the team captain.
What injury sidelined him in 2025?
He suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in his knee in September 2025, which kept him off the pitch for over nine months.
When did he return to playing after his knee injury?
Hajradinović returned to action on July 12, 2026.