Esmir Bajraktarević: Rising Bosnia Star Making Waves in European Football

Esmir Bajraktarević has quickly established himself as one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s brightest young footballers. Born in the United States to Bosnian parents, the talented winger has built an impressive career through dedication, technical ability, and maturity beyond his years. After developing in Major League Soccer, he earned a move to Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven, where he continues to develop into one of Europe’s exciting young attackers.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything about Esmir Bajraktarević, including his jersey number, high school background, religion, Bosnia career, age, and much more.

Esmir Bajraktarević Profile

Esmir Bajraktarević Number

One of the most searched questions is about Esmir Bajraktarević’s jersey number.

As of the 2026 season:

• PSV Eindhoven: Jersey No. 19
• Bosnia and Herzegovina National Team: He has worn No. 20 in recent international competitions.

His number has become increasingly recognizable as his importance for club and country continues to grow.

Esmir Bajraktarević High School

Unlike many American athletes who gain fame through high school sports, Bajraktarević followed a professional soccer academy pathway from an early age.

He was raised in Wisconsin and spent his youth playing for SC Wave, one of the top youth soccer clubs in the United States. He later joined the Chicago Fire Academy before moving to the New England Revolution Academy, where his professional development accelerated. Rather than becoming known through high school soccer, his focus remained on elite academy football.

Esmir Bajraktarević Religion

Esmir Bajraktarević has not publicly discussed his religious beliefs in detail.

However, he comes from a Bosnian family, and many Bosniaks traditionally practice Islam. Despite this cultural background, Bajraktarević has chosen to keep his personal faith private. There is no official confirmation regarding his religion, so any assumptions should be treated cautiously.

Why Does Esmir Bajraktarević Play for Bosnia?

Although born in the United States, Bajraktarević always maintained close ties to his Bosnian heritage.

His parents emigrated from Bosnia during the Bosnian War, and Esmir grew up surrounded by Bosnian culture. After representing the United States at youth level and making one senior appearance, he switched his international allegiance to Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2024.

He has since become one of Bosnia’s most exciting young players and has represented the nation in UEFA Nations League matches, World Cup qualifying, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Esmir Bajraktarević Age

Born on March 10, 2005, Esmir Bajraktarević is 21 years old in 2026.

Despite his young age, he has already:

• Played professionally in MLS
• Earned a transfer to PSV Eindhoven
• Represented two senior national teams
• Become a World Cup player for Bosnia and Herzegovina

Club Career

SC Wave

His football journey began with SC Wave in Wisconsin, where he developed exceptional technical ability.

Chicago Fire Academy

He briefly joined Chicago Fire’s academy before returning to SC Wave to continue his development.

New England Revolution

In 2021, Bajraktarević entered the New England Revolution academy.

He impressed quickly:

• Played for New England Revolution II
• Broke into the MLS first team
• Showed excellent dribbling and creativity

His performances attracted European scouts.

Move to PSV Eindhoven

In 2025, PSV signed Bajraktarević as one of the Netherlands’ promising young additions.

The transfer marked a significant step in his career.

At PSV he has:

• Competed in the Eredivisie
• Played in European competitions
• Continued improving his attacking output
• Helped the club win league honors

International Career

Bajraktarević’s international story is unique.

He represented:

• United States U19
• United States U23
• United States Senior Team

However, after careful consideration, he committed to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Since switching nations, he has:

• Become a regular squad member
• Scored his first international goal in World Cup qualifying
• Featured at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Playing Style

Bajraktarević is known for:

• Quick acceleration
• Excellent dribbling
• Left-footed creativity
• One-on-one ability
• Intelligent movement
• Crossing accuracy

He primarily operates on the right wing but can play across the attacking line.

Career Statistics (2026)

Club

• New England Revolution II
• New England Revolution
• PSV Eindhoven

International

• United States (Senior): 1 appearance
• Bosnia and Herzegovina: 14+ appearances, 1 goal

Statistics current through the 2025–26 season.

Interesting Facts

• Born in Appleton, Wisconsin.
• Developed through elite American soccer academies.
• Switched international allegiance from the United States to Bosnia.
• Plays for Dutch powerhouse PSV Eindhoven.
• Won Eredivisie titles with PSV.
• Considered one of Bosnia’s brightest young football prospects.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is Esmir Bajraktarević?

He is 21 years old, born on March 10, 2005.

What number does Esmir Bajraktarević wear?

He wears No. 19 for PSV and has worn No. 20 for Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Which country does Esmir Bajraktarević represent?

He represents Bosnia and Herzegovina internationally after switching from the United States in 2024.

Where did Esmir Bajraktarević go to high school?

He developed primarily through elite soccer academies, including SC Wave, Chicago Fire Academy, and New England Revolution Academy, rather than becoming known through high school soccer.

What religion is Esmir Bajraktarević?

He has not publicly confirmed his religion. While he comes from a Bosnian family, his personal faith remains private.