Hajduk president: 'We didn't expect to earn this much, now we must strengthen'

A celebratory mood has enveloped Poljud stadium as Hajduk Split secures a place in the group stage of the UEFA Europa Conference League, marking their return to European competitions after a 16-year hiatus. The club's victory over Polish side Rakow earned them €3.87 million for qualifying for the third-tier European tournament.

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It means a lot. It's like a weight has been lifted off our shoulders. We can breathe easier. But this is also a new beginning.

Club president Ivan Bilić expressed relief and optimism, stating, "It means a lot. It's like a weight has been lifted off our shoulders. We can breathe easier. But this is also a new beginning." He highlighted that the club had not anticipated revenue from European competitions, meaning their total income will far exceed the €3.87 million from UEFA, especially with additional earnings from three home European matches, including a highly anticipated game against Ajax.

Regarding player movements, Bilić confirmed that midfielders Pukštas and Sigur are expected to leave the club. "We knew at the beginning of the transfer window that Pukštas and Sigur would find new homes," he said, praising their recent performances. The club is actively planning to bring in new players, with transfers expected within the next week to ensure the team is competitive on both domestic and European fronts.

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We didn't plan for revenues from Europe. Our revenues will be much higher than 3.8 million euros from UEFA.

Bilić also addressed criticism directed at coach Gonzalo Garcia, emphasizing continuity and support for both the coach and the new sporting director. "Gonzalo Garcia is a continuation of the continuity we were looking for. He has started to gel well with the new sporting director. I support both of them," Bilić stated. He underscored the club's goal of consistently producing young, talented players, a role Garcia excels in.

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We knew at the beginning of the transfer window that Pukštas and Sigur would find new homes.

The draw for the Conference League group stage has set up a historic clash with Ajax. "We have a great history with Ajax," Bilić remarked. "We were waiting on the plane with whom we would play. We got the name of the club from the pilot. There was an eruption of joy." He views the match against Ajax as a significant event for the club's return to European football. Looking ahead to the domestic league, Bilić stressed the importance of strengthening the squad, stating, "Hajduk must always be competitive for the title. That's why it's important that we strengthen."

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Gonzalo Garcia is a continuation of the continuity we were looking for. He has started to gel well with the new sporting director.