Hajduk's head coach Damir Burić gave his first interview for the local radio station Radio Dalmacija, only two days after he began a season preparations.
During the interview with the station's sports reporter Marin Mrduljaš, coach Burić had spoken about his first days on the new job. Once again, he pointed out that Hajduk was his life-long wish, ever since he was a player. Thus, in spite of some other options he opted to return to Split.
Burić said that some of the standard first team players are not in his focus anymore (Maloča, Vršajević, Mezga, Gotal, etc.) after they expressed a wish to change a club. Also, on some positions Hajduk has young players who deserve a chance. Nevertheless, Hajduk plans to bring some new names into its roster.
"We are considering central half, defensive midfielder, and a centre forward, classic number nine. Talks went very far, we basically agreed about everything with some players, and they will bring us a real strengthening. Unfortunately, I still can't mention any names. Their contracts are valid till the June 30, and our first European League match is on July 2. Therefore, they need to break their contracts to sign up for Hajduk on time to be registered with the UEFA," Burić said to Mrduljaš.
Regarding a possible six million euros transfer of Andrija Balić to Valencia, Burić says:
"Balić and Vlašić and some other players are our jewels, our gold, and I love working with them. We have to keep them and polish them, to make them shine so strong that everyone would be happy when their departure time comes. We have to bring them to a level which will make everyone fight for them, and put us in a position to dictate terms."
New Hajduk coach also revealed new season goals.
"We decided to rely on young, prospective players who will be a foundation of Hajduk in the future. Our goal is to go as far as possible in European competition, and have a strong role in the national championship. If players keep working with this kind of enthusiasm as they are working now, I am sure we can raise our quality level and fulfil some of our goals," concluded Damir Burić in the Radio Dalmacija interview.
Interview with Damir Burić is available (in Croatian) on Radio Dalmacija web site.
