ÖFB loses goalkeeper Hamzic to Bosnia

The ÖFB seems to be losing another talent.

Goalkeeper Salko Hamzic – who holds dual Austrian-Bosnian citizenship – appears to have decided against the ÖFB and for Bosnia. The 19-year-old hinted at this in an interview with 90minuten.

"I've been in communication with the Bosnian national team in recent weeks. We talked about the future. Honestly, that really convinced me," explained the goalkeeper.

"I don't want this to be understood as a decision against the ÖFB. However, I basically told Bosnia that I'd be happy to be involved if they invite me. At the time, it felt completely right to choose Austria. But this decision feels just as right now."

Citizenship after Rangnick's Talent Development Camp

Hamzic debuted for the AKA U18 of the Red Bulls at the age of 14, and shortly before his 17th birthday, he first played between the posts for the "Young Bulls" in LigaZwa, making a total of 27 appearances for Liefering. This summer saw his move to WSG Tirol.

The Salzburg native was part of Ralf Rangnick's talent development camp in 2023, subsequently received Austrian citizenship, and has since played for the U18 (three matches) and U19 (nine matches) teams.

Prior to that, he had already attended a youth camp for Bosnia and Herzegovina. In the U21s, however, Salzburg youngster Christian Zawieschitzky has so far been preferred.

According to his own statements, the WSG goalkeeper has not had any recent contact with ÖFB team coach Rangnick.

Hamzic prepared for backlash

Hamzic is prepared for the fact that his decision against the ÖFB and for Bosnia will not be met with understanding everywhere.

"I'm aware that I might face some pushback. That's part of taking this step. But I think it's important to clearly state such decisions," said the 19-year-old.

Hamzic explains why he ultimately chose Bosnia:

"For me, the question was where my prospects are better, what I can achieve in a national team, and where I feel better placed for the future. As I said, it wasn't a decision against the ÖFB, but for Bosnia, where my roots are. I stand by my reasons. I greatly appreciate the work being done there. I am grateful for the appreciation I have received in recent years. I will fondly remember our time together."

The goalkeeper is not the first talent the ÖFB has lost. Previously, Jusuf Gazibegovic, Emir Karic, Amar Dedic, and Ermin Mahmic, among others, have decided against Austria.