HNK Hajduk Split has officially submitted its squad for the UEFA Europa League group stage. Coach Gonzalo Garcia announced a list of players on Thursday, as reported by the outlet 24sata Sport.
The Whites secured European autumn football by defeating Poland's Raków in the qualification play-off. Their group stage journey begins on October 15 at Poljud against Dutch giants Ajax. The squad is registered for all six group stage matches running from November to December. Any players not on this list, including potential signings added by September 7, will be ineligible for this phase of the competition.
Which players are on the list?
Garcia has included four goalkeepers: Ivica Ivušić, Toni Silić, Dante Stipica, and Davyd Fesyuk. The available defenders are Roko Gabrić, Alec Van Hoorenbeeck, Dennis Hadžikadunić, Ron Raci, Dario Marešić, Dario Melnjak, Mathieu Acapandie, Šimun Hrgović, Marino Skelin, and Luka Hodak.
The midfield comprises Adrion Pajaziti, Khalil Fayad, Leander Dendoncker, Etnik Brruti, Alberto Del Moral, Anđelo Šutalo, Adam Huram, and Illia Kutia. The forward line features Abdoulie "Bamba"Sanyang, Dalisson, Marko Livaja, Michele Šego, Marin Šotiček, Roko Brajković, and Carlos Martín."The Whites earned European autumn football with a victory over Raków in the qualification play-off, and their journey begins only in November, precisely on October 15 when the Dutch giant Ajax visits Poljud."
What is the current situation in the HNL?
European preparations are taking place alongside a solid start to the domestic season. Hajduk is currently 4th in the HNL table with 10 points from five games played. The club has three wins, one draw, and one loss. Their recent form over the last three matches shows one win, a draw, and a loss (WDL). They have scored 11 goals and conceded only five, giving them a +6 goal difference. They trail leaders Osijek by just two points, having thrashed them 4-0 in their last league outing on August 23.
What's next in the coming days?
Before the European battles begin, Hajduk must focus on domestic duties. The next league task is a match against NK Slaven Belupo scheduled for September 12 at Poljud. Belupo currently sits in 9th place in the table. This home fixture will be the final opportunity to fine-tune form before the intense European schedule. After that, the team will fully focus on preparations for hosting Ajax. Hajduk enters the European campaign with a complete squad list and a clear ambition to progress further in the competition.
