In the FC Basel’s victory, Albian Ajeti has finally gathered some compelling arguments for himself. The question of a contract extension, however, remains open. Ajeti’s contract is set to expire this summer, and his future with the club will depend on his performance in the upcoming months. The striker’s recent performance in the cup victory against Étoile Carouge has been noteworthy, but the question of his future at FC Basel remains uncertain.

When asked about his contract extension, Ajeti was evasive. He stated, “I let it come up to me” and “Those responsible know that I can stick to FC Basel.” He did not reveal whether negotiations are ongoing or how he assesses his chances of staying with FC Basel for the 2025/26 season. The only clear indication was his desire to stay, but the specifics remain shrouded in mystery.

Contract Extension Uncertainty

This summer, Ajeti’s contract at FC Basel will expire. Sports director Daniel Stucki mentioned this during a media conference on the announced career end of Tollant Xhakas. The option for another year, included in Ajeti’s contract, was not fulfilled by the agreed deadline. This means that Ajeti’s future at FC Basel will be determined by his performance in the coming months. As Stucki stated, “The services he will bring in the coming months will decide on his professional future.”

Celestini’s Perspective

FC Basel’s head coach, Fabio Celestini, acknowledges Ajeti’s importance to the team. However, he also recognizes that contract negotiations are not within his purview. Celestini has been clear about Ajeti’s value, saying, “Albian is absolutely important for us.” But when it comes to the team’s hierarchy, Celestini prefers Kevin Carlos. “We are currently playing a system with a number nine, and Kevin Carlos scores goals. It is a technical decision that it is in the starting eleven.”

Ajeti’s last start in the Basel lineup was in the cup game against FC Sion on December 4. In the league, his last start was on September 29. Since then, he has had a short injury break, scored just two more points, and was suspended for three games due to misconduct. These factors have not helped Ajeti regain his importance in the Basel attack.

A Breakthrough Performance

In the game against Carouge, Ajeti was substituted in the 63rd minute and subsequently showcased his value. Before the 1-1 by Gabriel Sigua, he made a clean pass to Dominik Schmid, setting up the goal. In the decisive 3-1, Ajeti intercepted the ball from Carouge defender Matis Magnin and provided a crucial assist. In short, Albian Ajeti played a significant role in FC Basel’s victory in Geneva.

While Ajeti collected his first points with two assists since November 9, Kevin Carlos also made an impact. Carlos, standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 216 pounds, delivered a solid performance. He scored two goals, bringing his total scorer points in 2025 to eight. Carlos scored the 2-1 with a remarkable header after a cross from Dominik Schmid and also the 3-1 after the preparatory work by Albian Ajeti.

A Step Towards Contract Extension

With two goals, Carlos was the standout player in FC Basel’s attack, just ahead of Ajeti. On his 28th birthday, two scorer points in a narrow Cup quarter-final victory were not enough for Ajeti to fully step out of Kevin Carlos’s shadow. However, he took a small step in that direction. This step also moves him closer to a potential contract extension beyond the summer. More performances like this will be necessary for Ajeti to achieve his goal.

Another opportunity for Ajeti to shine is expected on Saturday at the home game against FC Sion. Due to a yellow card suspension, Kevin Carlos will be unavailable. It is quite possible that Albian Ajeti will get the opportunity to show himself from the start after his performance in Carouge.

Looking Ahead

For American sports fans, the situation at FC Basel offers a familiar narrative. It’s a story of a talented player fighting to regain his form and secure his future with a club. Ajeti’s journey mirrors that of many athletes in the US, from NFL players fighting for roster spots to NBA players vying for minutes on the court. It’s a reminder that consistency and performance are key, no matter the sport or the league.

As the season progresses, Ajeti’s performance will be closely watched. If he can maintain his recent form, he may secure his future at FC Basel. However, if his performance dips, he may find himself on the outside looking in, much like many athletes in the US who struggle to find their footing after an injury or a slump.

In the end, Ajeti’s future at FC Basel will be determined by his performance on the field. As Celestini noted, “Albian is absolutely important for us.” But in the competitive world of professional sports, importance is often measured in goals and assists, not just potential. Ajeti has taken a small step in the right direction, but he still has a long way to go to secure his future at FC Basel.