Bosnian Defender Joins Hajduk Amidst Defensive Shuffle; Club's Own Talent May Be Left Behind

Hajduk Split has added Bosnian and Herzegovinian international Dennis Hadžikadunić to their squad, marking the ninth center-back to feature under coach Gonzalo Garcia in just over a year. Hadžikadunić's arrival highlights a revolving door at the defensive position, with Garcia having utilized various combinations of defenders in his 52 matches.

Hadžikadunić is described as a prototype modern defender, known for his tactical discipline, ability to read the game, composure under pressure, aerial strength, and reliable ball distribution. Born in Malmö, Sweden, he progressed through Sweden's youth national teams before making the significant decision in 2020 to represent Bosnia and Herzegovina, becoming a key player and earning 33 caps.

His club career has seen him play for his hometown club Malmö, where he won two Swedish league titles and a cup, before moving to Russia's Rostov for €1 million in 2018. He also had loan spells back at Malmö and in Spain. At Hajduk, he becomes the 40th player to be used by Garcia, a stark contrast to Gattuso's 37 players in 43 games.

The influx of center-backs, including Hadžikadunić, Racija, Marešić, and Van Hoorenbeeck, suggests that Hajduk's own promising young defenders, Roko Skelin and Roko Gabrić, both Croatian U-19 internationals, might find themselves surplus to requirements. This situation contrasts with Dinamo Zagreb, where coach Kovačević has established a more consistent defensive pairing.