HNK Hajduk Split manager Gonzalo Garcia delivered an emotional speech in the dressing room following the huge 2-1 victory over Ajax. The Whites celebrated a memorable return to the European stage with a win in their Conference League opener on Thursday at Poljud.
Garcia praised his players for the character and fighting spirit they displayed. "I have no words to describe what you did tonight," the manager said. "You showed we can compete equally with anyone. I am very proud we showed we are Hajduk. That's who we are."
Manager instantly refocuses the team
Despite the euphoria, Garcia did not let the celebration overshadow the duties ahead. He immediately directed the squad's attention to the next domestic challenge. "But it's October. New challenges are ahead of us. This is just one match," Garcia stated. "In a few days we play Varaždin, we must approach it the same way."
Hajduk will host NK Varaždin on Saturday, October 19th, in the 12th round of the Croatian First League. Ahead of that match, the team sits second in the standings with 25 points, trailing leaders Dinamo by five points. The win over Ajax provided key momentum, but the league campaign remains the primary focus.
After the manager's words, music echoed through the dressing room as the players continued their celebrations. This victory was particularly significant as Hajduk delivered one of their best performances in recent memory, combining quality with fearlessness. The team displayed the identity the supporters had been longing for.
Alongside the European success, Hajduk are on a solid domestic run with three wins in their last four league matches. Their next European fixture is in two weeks against Romanian side FCSB. Manager Garcia expects the same approach against Varaždin, stressing that consistency is key to further success.
