Albian Ajeti has left FC Basel to join league rival FC Lugano. The transfer, completed on Tuesday evening, is viewed as a blow to the image of the traditional Basel club, as reported by bz Basel.
FC Basel currently sits in 3rd place in the Super League with 10 points from 5 games, just 2 points behind the league leader, which happens to be Ajeti's new employer. Stephan Lichtsteiner's team has a goal difference of +3, having scored 10 and conceded 7, and faces 4th-placed FC St. Gallen at home in their next match on September 20th. The full schedule of upcoming games is available on our fixtures page.
Why did Ajeti leave FC Basel?
Albian Ajeti had recently been a substitute player despite strong training performances. Coach Stephan Lichtsteiner had praised the striker during the pre-season. "Outstanding - that's how Albian Ajeti trained in preparation," Lichtsteiner said. However, the attacker went through a difficult period in the spring and was reportedly open to a transfer, which could have even led to Saudi Arabia. FC Basel ultimately released a player who no longer had a sporting role but commanded a significant salary.
The move to Lugano is initially a loan deal, with the Ticino club holding an option to buy. This allows for potential future collaboration. For FC Basel, the departure also means losing a player with influence in the dressing room, which is said to have had both positive and negative effects. The current squad composition can be viewed on our squad page.
How does the transfer affect the club's image?
The departure of Albian Ajeti is considered damaging to FC Basel's external image. The club is increasingly perceived as a transit stop for young talents who move on after a short time. This impression is reinforced by the fact that experienced player Dominik Schmid also left the club in this transfer window. Only Xherdan Shaqiri remains as a figure who can uphold the club's flag.
The direct move to a competitor in the same league, FC Lugano, exacerbates the perception further. It signals that established forces are leaving the club to play for direct rivals. The league position and points tally are always up to date on our standings page.
What is FC Basel's sporting situation?
Stephan Lichtsteiner's team is in a solid phase of the current season. With three wins, one draw, and one loss from five matches, the team has a positive trend. The recent form shows the results DWWLW. The next challenge awaits on September 20th with the home game against FC St. Gallen, a direct duel for the top positions.
The goal difference of +3 underscores a balanced performance in attack and defense. The 10 goals scored show attacking intent, while the 7 goals conceded leave room for improvement. The title race is tight, with the gap to leaders Lugano being just two points. The next match against St. Gallen offers the chance to solidify their position in the upper third of the table.
