🚨 BREAKING: Sergej Barbarez Breaks Silence as Edin Džeko Leaves Bosnia Camp Ahead of Poland Clash

Sergej Barbarez has confirmed that Edin Džeko is leaving the Bosnia and Herzegovina camp following his international retirement, meaning the Dragons will face Poland without their legendary captain and record goalscorer.

Barbarez admitted he would have liked Džeko to remain around the squad but understood the decision as Bosnia prepare for a crucial Nations League meeting with Poland.

Barbarez Opens Up on Džeko's Departure

Sergej Barbarez has addressed Edin Džeko's departure from the Bosnia and Herzegovina camp after the striker brought his international career to an end.

Džeko played his final match for Bosnia against Sweden on October 2, bringing an emotional conclusion to a national-team career that began in 2007.

Following the farewell, Barbarez confirmed that the veteran striker was expected to leave the camp and return to Germany before Bosnia's next Nations League fixture.

“I think he has to go to Germany today. I would be glad if he appeared, to see him once again,” Barbarez said, while acknowledging that he does not particularly enjoy farewells.

The Bosnia boss also stressed that the most important thing was maintaining the friendship and relationship they have built over the years.

Džeko Leaves Behind an Extraordinary Legacy

Džeko's departure represents the end of one of the most important eras in Bosnian football.

Before his farewell against Sweden, the striker had already established himself as Bosnia and Herzegovina's record appearance holder and record goalscorer, with 151 caps and 73 goals.

His final appearance against Sweden was filled with emotion as his teammates formed a guard of honour when he left the pitch in the second half, while supporters at Bilino Polje gave their captain a standing ovation.

Barbarez Faces Life Without His Talisman

The timing means Barbarez must immediately begin preparing Bosnia for life without one of the most recognisable players in the country's history.

The coach said the remaining 25 players in camp are available, although fatigue remains a consideration after a demanding run of international fixtures.

Haris Tabaković is among the players who could take on a greater attacking responsibility following Džeko's retirement, while Ermedin Demirović also provides another option in the forward line.

The challenge will be replacing not only Džeko's goals but also the experience and leadership he brought to the squad.

Poland Present Another Major Test

Bosnia now turn their attention to Poland, with the two sides meeting in a crucial Nations League clash.

Barbarez pointed out that Poland are dealing with a similar situation because Robert Lewandowski is also unavailable. However, he warned that Poland still possess considerable depth even without their biggest attacking names.

“They change five or six players and still have quality,” Barbarez said, highlighting the strength of Poland's squad beyond their established stars.

The match therefore gives Bosnia an immediate opportunity to show how they can compete without their legendary No. 11.

A New Chapter Begins for Bosnia

Džeko's departure closes a chapter that lasted nearly two decades, but Barbarez cannot afford to dwell on the past with an important Nations League fixture approaching.

The Bosnia manager must now find a new attacking formula while maintaining the competitive spirit that has taken the national team to another important stage.

For Džeko, meanwhile, the focus shifts away from international football after an extraordinary career in the Bosnia shirt.

His final appearance may have arrived, but his influence on Bosnian football is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.