Former police commander and war hero leads HNL's hit club: The man who led people into deadly actions now drives Varaždin's success

NK Varaždin is proving that a small team with immense dedication can challenge the established order in the Croatian First Football League (HNL). Under the leadership of President Dražen Vitez, a man whose past includes commanding special police units and serving as a decorated defender of Croatia, the club has transformed into a model of success.

Vitez, who joined the club in March 2021, has infused the team with a sense of family and shared purpose. His transition from leading men in dangerous operations to guiding a football club demonstrates a remarkable application of leadership skills. As sports director Nikola Šafarić noted, Vitez's positive energy is the driving force, making the club a cohesive unit that strives for continuous improvement.

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We are first and foremost like a big family. We are together every day; President Vitez, Director Toni Dalić, and I.

The club's strategic approach is evident in its impressive transfer record. Before Vitez's tenure, six-figure transfers were rare. Now, Varaždin has completed 12 such deals, with three players sold for over a million euros. This financial acumen, coupled with a commitment to nurturing talent, highlights the club's sustainable growth model. It's a story of how strong leadership and a clear vision can elevate a provincial team to national prominence, a narrative that resonates deeply within Croatia.

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When we were relegated from the league, 27 out of 30 players wanted to leave the club, and the president created a WhatsApp group called “Prva liga” (First League), and that’s when a new Varaždin began.