Kristijan Trapanovski possesses the quality to become one of the top players in the Scottish Premiership, provided Dundee United adopts a more attacking, possession-based approach, according to his former Tannadice teammate and compatriot, David Babunski.
Trapanovski demonstrated flashes of his potential during his debut season in Scotland after joining from FK Shkupi in North Macedonia, contributing six goals and four assists. However, the 25-year-old admitted to struggling with consistency and the need to improve his physical presence, with his progress also hindered by two separate hamstring injuries.
Babunski, who observed Trapanovski closely, is confident the winger can excel in the Premiership if Jim Goodwin’s side evolves its tactical approach to allow him more opportunities. “I honestly believe Kristijan is one of the best wingers in the league,” Babunski told Courier Sport. He emphasized Trapanovski’s effectiveness in one-on-one situations, stating, “He is deadly in those moments.”
Babunski noted a difference in how Trapanovski received the ball compared to wingers at top clubs like Celtic, who have more consistent possession and chances to influence play. He explained that Trapanovski often had limited opportunities to make a difference before being required to track back defensively, impacting his freshness. “So, Kristijan’s impact also depends on the circumstances the team will create for him,” Babunski added. “If Jim (Goodwin) manages to make United into a more possession-based team, I know Trapa is going to do great. He can make the difference in so many games in that league.”
Babunski also believes Trapanovski will benefit significantly from his inaugural experience in British football. He described the past season as a “steep learning curve” both on and off the pitch. Trapanovski is expected to approach the 2025/26 campaign with renewed vigor following an extended break, having been part of the North Macedonia squad during the recent international window. “When he gets all those parts of his game right, he has all the necessary attributes to be one of the best players in the Premiership,” Babunski concluded.
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