From Ending Jesé’s Career to Being One of Bosnia’s Stars at the 2026 World Cup
Kolasinac’s Rise in European Football
Sead Kolasinac, a talented left-back, has quietly carved out a commendable career in the higher echelons of European football. At the age of 32, he stands as one of the pivotal figures for the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team—a side often regarded as an underdog in global tournaments.
As Bosnia gears up for its second appearance at the World Cup, excitement fills the air. Having achieved a draw against Canada in their opening match, the team holds a realistic hope of progressing beyond the group stage. This prospect is particularly significant considering their previous outing in the 2014 World Cup, where they fell short of making it past the group phase.
World Cup Journey: Past and Present
Kolasinac’s journey this time around has been notably more promising than his first experience at the World Cup. In 2014, he infamously scored an own goal during a match against Argentina. However, in the current tournament, he has made impactful contributions, starting strong with an assist in the game against Canada.
Kolasinac in the match against Canada. (Reuters/Kevin Sousa)
Jesé Rodríguez: A Talented Career Altered by Injury
For many Real Madrid fans, Kolasinac’s name will resonate deeply. In an unfortunate twist of fate, he played a significant role in derailing the promising career of Jesé Rodríguez. In a Champions League clash in 2014, with Real Madrid already holding a favorable lead, Kolasinac’s fortuitous tackle led to a catastrophic injury for Jesé— a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.
At just 21, Jesé was emerging as one of the most promising talents under Carlo Ancelotti, battling for top spots in a squad that included heavyweights like Gareth Bale. However, the injury sidelined him for months, and despite making a comeback, he never managed to recapture the form that once showcased his immense potential.
Jesé Rodríguez with the Real Madrid shirt. (Getty Images)
Kolasinac’s Career Milestones
Despite the unfortunate event involving Jesé, Kolasinac has persevered in establishing a remarkable career. After his youth development at Schalke 04, where he made his professional debut in 2012, Kolasinac became known for his rugged defensive style. His contributions at Schalke eventually led him to Arsenal, where he played for five years, winning an FA Cup and two English Super Cups.
In 2023, Kolasinac made a significant leap in his career by signing with Atalanta, where he quickly became a crucial member of the defense. Playing an instrumental role, he was part of the historic squad that clinched the Europa League in 2024, marking the club’s first major continental title.
Conclusion: A New Chapter Awaits
As Bosnia and Herzegovina pursue glory in the 2026 World Cup, Sead Kolasinac stands at the forefront, embodying both resilience and skill. His evolution from a player shadowed by an unfortunate injury incident to a stalwart in the national team is a testament to his character and dedication. With Kolasinac leading the charge, Bosnia hopes to write a new chapter in their football history on the world stage.