Varaždin midfielder Ivan Canjuga has revealed that his family supports HNK Hajduk Split, although he himself is fully committed to his current club. The 20-year-old shared details about his incredible start to the season and his early days at the Split club in an exclusive interview with Index.hr Sport.
Canjuga scored three goals and provided four assists in the first seven league matches of the 2024/25 season, earning him a nomination for Player of the Month in September. "I didn't really think I would start the season so well." said the young international. After three seasons on loan at Lokomotiva, where he accumulated 778 minutes, he returned to Varaždin in less than eight months and immediately became a key player.
What is Ivan Canjuga's connection to Hajduk?
Ivan Canjuga was a member of Hajduk's youth academy as a ten-year-old. However, his time at Poljud was short. "I don't remember much about that period," Canjuga admitted. His father later explained that Hajduk did not keep him because he was considered too young. Interestingly, his entire family still supports the Split club, while he himself is loyal to Varaždin. That support didn't stop him from helping beat them; in a match that ended 2:1 for Varaždin, Canjuga assisted one of the goals against Hajduk.
Hajduk currently sits in fourth place in the HNL table with 10 points from five games played. A record of three wins, one draw, and one loss leaves them two points behind leaders Osijek. The Split side impressively defeated Osijek 4:0 in their last match, played on August 23, 2026. Their recent run of three matches shows one win, one draw, and one loss. They have scored 11 goals and conceded five, giving them a goal difference of +6. Their next challenge is on September 12, 2026, against Slaven Belupo, who are currently in ninth place. You can follow all upcoming matches on our fixtures page.
How did Ivan Canjuga get his senior debut?
Mario Kovačević gave Ivan Canjuga his first chance in senior football when he was just 16 years old. He debuted for Varaždin against Dubrava, which was the start of his upward trajectory. This was followed by three seasons in Lokomotiva's youth and senior setup, where he played on the wing. He believes that experience helped develop his versatility. Now, at Varaždin, he plays as a central or defensive midfielder and has so far played 630 minutes in seven league appearances.
Canjuga is also a regular member of the Croatian U-21 national team. He expresses optimism regarding the qualifications for Euro 2027. Although he enjoys watching Spanish league football, particularly Barcelona, he has not seriously considered a transfer abroad yet. His dream is to one day play for Barcelona. For now, he focuses on personal development, listening to his coaches, and enjoying the game. He emphasizes how the positive atmosphere in the dressing room and friendship with teammates are key contributors to his good form.
Which former teammate does he still keep in touch with?
One of his favourite teammates from his time in Lokomotiva's youth setup was Marin Šotiček. The two young players still maintain a close connection. "We talk every day. I'm glad he returned to the HNL, so I can see him more," stated Canjuga. He added that he would love to play on the same pitch with Šotiček again. This connection shows the importance of off-field relationships for long-term career development.
Ivan Canjuga has clearly set his priorities: development and team success for Varaždin. While his family cheers for Hajduk, he is fully dedicated to his club and the national team. The current state of the standings table shows that every match will be important in the fight for a better position. The next home match against Slaven Belupo is scheduled for September 12, 2026.
