Vasil Kušej has joined Slovan Liberec on a season-long loan from Slavia Prague, marking what the 26-year-old forward describes as a fresh start after the most difficult six months of his career. The move follows a period of reduced playing time and personal struggles in Prague, with the player now looking to regain his form in the same Austrian training facility where he previously concluded his tenure with the Slavia squad.
Transition from Slavia to Liberec
Kušej, a two-time league champion with Slavia, characterized his final months in Eden as a period of significant personal and professional strain. According to his comments on the Slovan+ platform, he lost his place in the starting lineup during the spring, a situation exacerbated by injury and a loss of form. The forward noted that he faced criticism from fans and coaches, describing himself as being “pushed to the sidelines.” He credited his partner, family, and teammate Jan Bořil for providing necessary support during this time.
Did You Know? Vasil Kušej highlighted his January performance in the Champions League, where he scored against Barcelona, as one of the only two matches during his final half-year at Slavia where he felt genuine joy on the pitch.
Stakes and Future Expectations
The forward has expressed a clear desire to play against his parent club, Slavia, when the two teams meet in mid-August. However, the possibility of his participation remains subject to internal club policies. Slavia assistant coach Zdeněk Houštecký addressed the situation, stating that while he understands the player’s desire to compete, Kušej remains a Slavia-contracted player and that “logical rules” govern his status. Houštecký did not rule out a potential return to the club in the future, noting that “maybe he will return in half a year.”
Commitment to the New Squad
Beyond his immediate performance goals, Kušej has tied his future at Liberec to a personal wager. He has promised to get a tattoo of the Ještěd mountain if the team qualifies for European competition next season. The forward, who expressed a growing affinity for tattoos, views the gesture as a symbol of his commitment to the team’s success under coach Branislav Fodrek. Despite the cancellation of a recent friendly against Puskás Akadémia FC, the team continues to integrate new players as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Vasil Kušej leave Slavia Prague?
According to the player, the departure was mutually desired after a difficult six-month period where he lost his spot in the starting lineup due to injury and a loss of sport form.
Will Kušej be allowed to play against Slavia in August?
It is currently uncertain. Slavia assistant coach Zdeněk Houštecký indicated that the decision depends on “logical rules” regarding his status as a player on loan who is still partially paid by the parent club.
What is the condition of Kušej’s bet with his new club?
Kušej has pledged to get a tattoo of the Ještěd mountain if Slovan Liberec qualifies for European football competitions during his loan spell.
Do you believe loan players should be permitted to compete against the clubs that hold their registration rights?
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