Igor Tudor's son and nephew signed for the same Italian third league

Roko Tudor and Marin Ćalušić, son and nephew of Croatian football legend Igor Tudor, have signed with Italian third-tier club Altamura. The two players, both born in 2006, will continue their careers in Italy after completing their respective paths through Croatia’s youth systems. Tudor, who plays as a defender, spent last season with Dugopolje before moving to Italy. Ćalušić, a midfielder, joined Altamura following a stint with Široki Brijeg and the Slovak second division side Banska Bystrica. Both have signed one-year contracts with an option for extension. Tudor began his journey with Hajduk Split's youth academy in 2021, coming from Stobrečko Primorje. He played 33 matches for the under-19 team during the previous season before joining Dugopolje. His move to Italy marks a new chapter in his career, continuing the family tradition of playing football professionally. Tudor’s father, Igor Tudor, was a prominent figure in Croatian football, known for his coaching achievements and long tenure with Hajduk Split. Ćalušić, part of the celebrated generation of Hajduk’s youth teams, participated in the UEFA Youth League final three years ago. His performances caught attention, leading to opportunities abroad. After leaving Hajduk, he moved to Široki Brijeg and later joined Banska Bystrica in Slovakia, where he won the second tier. Now, he joins Altamura, a club competing in Serie C, Italy’s third division. This signing represents a step forward in his professional development. Altamura, based in the Basilicata region, competes in Serie C, which is the third level of Italian football. The club has been working to strengthen its squad ahead of the upcoming season. Signing Tudor and Ćalušić adds depth to their roster, particularly in defensive and midfield roles. Both players bring experience from Croatian and Slovenian leagues, offering versatility and tactical awareness. The move reflects broader trends in Croatian football, where young talent often seeks opportunities beyond the country’s domestic scene. Many players from Hajduk’s youth system have pursued careers in Italy, Germany, and other European nations. For Tudor and Ćalušić, this represents a strategic decision to gain exposure in a competitive league while building on their foundations laid in Croatia. Both players will join Altamura ahead of the new season, aiming to contribute to the club’s ambitions. Their presence could provide stability and leadership, especially given their age and prior experience. While the exact terms of their contracts remain undisclosed, the possibility of extensions suggests a mutual interest in developing a longer-term relationship. The club hopes to leverage their talents to improve performance and achieve better results in Serie C.