Kovačević announced the hunt for LP, praised Oršić and spoke about the Fire axis: "I believe he will stay"

Mario Kovačević, head coach of Hajduk Split, has announced his team's upcoming focus on the UEFA Champions League qualifiers while expressing confidence in several key players. The announcement was made during a press conference ahead of a friendly match against NK Zagreb, held in Grosuplje. This event took place just days after the Croatian football club had its training base relocated to a luxury hotel near Kranj, Slovenia, where preparations for the new season have been ongoing. The move to the Slovenian resort marks a significant shift in the club’s strategy, aiming to provide players with optimal conditions for physical and mental preparation before the demanding European campaign begins. The hotel, located approximately 200 meters away from the training ground, has become a central hub for the squad, offering modern facilities and a secluded environment conducive to focused training sessions. The presence of multiple teams, including Ukrainian champions Shakhtar Donetsk and Armenian side Noah, highlights the international nature of this preparatory phase. Kovačević emphasized the importance of maintaining unity within the squad despite the challenges posed by the transition period. He acknowledged the rigorous nature of their current training regimen, which includes both physical conditioning and tactical drills aimed at preparing the team for the high-stakes matches ahead. The coach also highlighted the need for the squad to remain injury-free, noting that the warm weather in Slovenia provides favorable conditions compared to the more challenging climate in Zagreb. In addition to discussing the team's readiness, Kovačević praised several players who have shown exceptional performance during the preparatory phase. Among them, Mislav Oršić stood out as a standout performer, whose consistent efforts and motivation have been instrumental in shaping the team's dynamics. The coach expressed confidence that Oršić would continue to play a pivotal role in the coming months, emphasizing the value he brings to the squad both in terms of experience and leadership. Looking ahead, Kovačević addressed the potential changes in the squad structure, acknowledging that player transfers could occur before the end of August. Despite the uncertainty surrounding some players' futures, he stressed the importance of maintaining a cohesive unit and ensuring that all members contribute positively to the team's objectives. His comments were particularly relevant given the recent interest from other clubs in several key players, although he remained optimistic about retaining talent crucial to the team's success. The coach also touched upon the expectations placed on Hajduk Split following their successful campaign last season. He welcomed the heightened anticipation from fans and supporters, stating that the team aims to meet these expectations by performing well in the Champions League qualifiers. The upcoming matches will serve as critical tests for the squad, allowing them to gauge their readiness for the challenges ahead. As the team continues its preparations, the focus remains on building a strong foundation that can withstand the pressures of competitive football. With the friendly match against NK Zagreb serving as a stepping stone, Kovačević and his players are determined to ensure they enter the new season with the necessary confidence and cohesion. Their journey towards achieving success in the Champions League will depend on their ability to maintain unity, adapt to changing circumstances, and perform consistently under pressure.