Der ehemalige Chef der Hajduk-Akademie hat einen neuen Verein.

Goran Sablić, former head coach of Hajduk's academy, has officially joined Kuwaiti club Al Arabi. The announcement was made through official channels, with the club releasing a career resume highlighting his achievements. Sablić, 46, returns to coaching after ten months away following a brief stint with Mostar’s Velež. His new role marks a return to the sport he once played professionally. Sablić began his football journey playing for just two clubs during his player career, Hajduk and Dynamo Kyiv, and retired at the age of 30. He transitioned into coaching, starting as an assistant under Zoran Vulić at Park of Youth, where he worked with youth teams aged U-17 and U-19 before eventually taking charge of the senior squad. He later coached Široki Brijeg, Sheriff Tiraspol, the second team of Hajduk, and Sarajevo. During his time at Hajduk, he served as technical coordinator within the Academy system, working alongside Luka Kaliterna. In June last year, he accepted an offer from Mostar and took charge of Velež, but lasted only nine matches before leaving the position. Since then, he has been without a coaching job until now. Al Arabi, based in Kuwait, has officially announced Sablić as their new head coach. The club released a statement detailing his professional background, emphasizing his experience both as a player and a coach. His tenure at Hajduk included roles ranging from youth development to senior team management, showcasing his versatility and deep understanding of Croatian football structures. His move to Kuwait represents a shift to the Middle East, marking a new chapter in his career. The decision to appoint Sablić comes amid ongoing developments in the football landscape of the Gulf region, where European coaches are increasingly sought after for their tactical knowledge and leadership skills. While specific details about his contract terms have not been disclosed, the club has expressed confidence in his ability to lead their team forward. Sablić's previous experiences managing multiple clubs and levels of play suggest he brings a well-rounded perspective to his new role. In recent years, Sablić has remained active in football circles, maintaining connections with former clubs and continuing to engage with the sport. His absence from coaching since leaving Velež has been notable, making this appointment all the more significant. The timing of his return coincides with a period of growth for Al Arabi, which aims to strengthen its competitive standing in the Kuwaiti Premier League and beyond. Looking ahead, Sablić will face the challenge of adapting to a new league and culture while leveraging his extensive experience. His familiarity with Croatian football systems could provide a strategic advantage, particularly in terms of player development and tactical approach. As preparations for the upcoming season begin, fans of Al Arabi will be watching closely to see how Sablić applies his expertise in a new environment. The club’s official announcement signals the start of a new phase in Sablić’s career, one that promises both challenges and opportunities.