HNK Hajduk Split enters the 2025/2026 season with renewed ambition as they seek to build on a strong domestic campaign and develop their mark in European competition. The Split-based club, one of Croatia’s most storied football institutions, begins its 115th season in existence and 35th consecutive year in the country’s top flight.
Under the guidance of manager Gonzalo García, Hajduk Split will compete on three fronts this season: the Croatian First Football League (HNL), the Croatian Cup, and the UEFA Conference League. The campaign officially runs from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, aligning with the standard European football calendar.
The club’s squad for the 2025/2026 season features a blend of experienced veterans and emerging talent. Key players include captain Marko Livaja, who wears the number 10 jersey and serves as the team’s talisman, and Michele Šego, who finished as the team’s top goalscorer with 10 goals across all competitions. Other notable squad members are goalkeeper Ivica Ivušić, defenders Dario Melnjak and Ismaël Diallo, and midfielders Hugo Guillamón and Niko Sigur.
In domestic competition, Hajduk Split finished the first half of the season in second place in the HNL standings with 60 points from 31 matches (18 wins, 6 draws, 7 losses), trailing league leaders Dinamo Zagreb by 10 points. The team has shown particular strength at home, recording their highest attendance of the season at 32,212 for the derby clash against Dinamo Zagreb on September 20, 2025.
European competition presents both challenge and opportunity for the Dalmatian side. Hajduk Split entered the UEFA Conference League at the third qualifying round stage, aiming to progress to the group phase for the first time since the competition’s rebranding from the Europa League. Their European campaign will test the squad’s depth against unfamiliar opposition from across the continent.
The Croatian Cup offers another avenue for silverware, with Hajduk Split reaching the quarter-finals as of February 2026. Cup success could provide a valuable trophy and potentially ease the pressure of a challenging league campaign where Dinamo Zagreb has established clear dominance in recent years.
Off the pitch, the club continues to operate under chairman Ivan Bilić, who oversees the administrative and financial aspects of the organization. The club’s home ground, Stadion Poljud in Split, remains one of the most atmospheric venues in Croatian football, particularly when filled to capacity for high-stakes matches.
As the season progresses toward its conclusion in June 2026, Hajduk Split’s ability to maintain consistency across all competitions will determine whether they can close the gap on their rivals and reclaim their position at the summit of Croatian football. The club’s passionate fanbase, known for creating one of the most intimidating atmospheres in Eastern Europe, will undoubtedly play a crucial role in pushing the team forward during pivotal moments of the season.
The next confirmed checkpoint for Hajduk Split is their upcoming HNL match scheduled for late April 2026, with specific fixture details subject to the league’s official calendar. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the Split giants can mount a serious title challenge in the season’s final stretch.
For continued updates on Hajduk Split’s 2025/2026 season, including match results, player performances, and club developments, readers are encouraged to follow official club channels and reputable sports news outlets covering Croatian football.
