Balajić: Hajduk needs to resolve Livaja situation, upcoming Pafos match is key

Hajduk Split secured their progression in the Europa League, overcoming Žilina in a match that saw the team perform well in three out of four halves. Despite a less convincing final half, attributed partly to a long journey and the presence of many young players, the club advanced. Former Hajduk player Stipe Balajić, a respected figure in Slovenian football, shared his observations on the team's current state.

“

Hajduk is still a team in development, with new young players. It's too early to judge anything. Let's let Hajduk try to beat Pafos, then we can evaluate more.

Balajić acknowledged that Hajduk is still a team in development, with new signings needing time to adapt. He cautioned against definitive judgments based on a small sample size but expressed hope for continued growth, highlighting the integration of young talent. The upcoming match against Pafos, considered a stronger opponent than Žilina, will be a more significant indicator of the team's capabilities.

“

Perhaps twenty percent better than in the first match against Žilina, they must minimize mistakes and defend well. I hope Marko Livaja will be in the starting lineup because he can bring a lot to Hajduk in that match.

A key point of discussion was the situation surrounding Marko Livaja, a player Balajić believes is vital to Hajduk's success. Livaja has had limited playing time, leading Balajić to speculate about underlying issues between the player and the coach. He stressed the importance of resolving this matter for the club's benefit, emphasizing that Livaja has been the team's engine in recent years and his presence in the starting lineup could significantly benefit Hajduk. Balajić hopes for a resolution that allows Livaja to play regularly.

“

I am trying to figure out what is actually happening. Hajduk must resolve this, I assume they are trying to arrange it, something must change because it is in the club's interest. It is clear that something is not right between him and the coach, and this has been going on for quite some time. It's a shame, I hope it will be resolved and we will finally see Livaja in the first team.