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Graf talked about the drama with Levi, the reinforcements and the gem: "The offer wasn't good enough".
Croatia⚽ Sports9/7/2026

Graf talked about the drama with Levi, the reinforcements and the gem: "The offer wasn't good enough".

In a recent interview with Nova TV, Hajduk Split's sports director Robert Graf discussed the club's summer transfer market activities. The club successfully sold two players, Rokas Pukštas and Niko Sigur, for significant sums, while bringing in new signings like Carlos Martin and Leander Dendoncker. Graf noted that while expectations for Martin are high due to his background at Atlético Madrid, the club does not intend to add extra pressure on him. Regarding other potential transfers, Graf mentioned that while there was interest in Šimun Hrgović, the offer was not sufficient, and for Michele Šegu, no formal offer was received despite his desire to stay. He also addressed the performance of coach Gonzalo García, acknowledging areas for improvement but expressing confidence in his ability to build strong relationships with players. Finally, Graf commented on the disciplinary action against Marko Livaja at the start of the season, stating that the club implemented equal rules for all players and that Livaja accepted this decision, though he still needs to fight for his place in the starting lineup.

Slaven Alfirević, a prominent figure in Croatian football, has expressed optimism about the current state of Hajduk Split. He praised the club's leadership, stating that the president and coach are performing exceptionally well. Alfirević noted that discussions about former player Ivic Pirić have largely ceased, signaling a shift in focus towards the present success of the team. Hajduk currently leads the league standings and has secured four consecutive victories, including qualifying for European competition after a 16-year absence. The optimism surrounding Hajduk has grown significantly, especially with Dynamo Zagreb struggling against Gorica. Alfirević highlighted how quickly things can change, noting that earlier concerns about the coexistence of Marko Livaja and coach Gonzalo Garcia have faded. Once questioned whether the club could accommodate both, such doubts are no longer prevalent. Ivan Bilić, the club's president, has been lauded for his decision to sell players Pukštas and Sigur, generating much-needed funds. Additionally, the mention of Pirić and his Ukrainian investors has diminished, indicating a more stable situation within the club. Robert Graf, the sports director, has been recognized for his role in assembling a new squad, bringing in eight new players as promised at the start of the season. His efforts have led to a more balanced and strategic approach in the midfield, addressing long-standing issues regarding the team's structure and stability. Gonzalo Garcia has transitioned into being regarded as the best coach, having transformed the team's style of play to be faster and more purposeful. The atmosphere around the club has improved, with fans showing continued support for Livaja despite his reduced playing time. Marko Livaja continues to fulfill his duties, often entering matches in the final stages, contributing goals through teammates like Michele Šego. While some might question his role, it seems he has adapted to this position, benefiting from the adoration of the crowd during his appearances. Leander Dendoncker, a notable signing for Hajduk, has joined the club as a free agent following his departure from Real Oviedo. With a career spanning clubs such as Anderlecht, Wolverhampton, Aston Villa, Napoli, and Real Oviedo, Dendoncker brings experience and versatility to the team. His arrival aligns with Graf’s strategy to enhance the team's physicality, intensity, and character, focusing on attributes crucial for success in competitive football. Graf emphasized that while Dendoncker is a high-profile acquisition, the decision was based on his profile and abilities rather than just his name. This move completes the reconstruction of Hajduk's midfield, providing balance and depth in both defensive and offensive roles. Regarding financial constraints, Graf acknowledged limited funds for additional signings during the summer transfer window, but stressed that the club aims to maintain sustainability in its spending. He mentioned that the reduction in player salaries by approximately three million euros annually makes the current financial situation manageable. Concerning character assessments of potential signings, Graf indicated that while basic checks were conducted, psychological evaluations would be introduced in the future to better understand candidates' suitability for the team. This reflects a commitment to ensuring new additions integrate well with the existing squad dynamics. Gonzalo García received praise for his coaching capabilities and interpersonal skills, although there remain areas for improvement in collaboration between the coaching staff and club management. Graf expressed confidence in García's potential for success given adequate support. The resolution of tensions involving Marko Livaja at the beginning of the season has been addressed, emphasizing that equal rules were applied for all players, leading to mutual understanding and respect. Despite initial challenges, Livaja has accepted his role within the team, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. As the summer transfer window closes, attention shifts toward internal discussions regarding contract extensions for key players, particularly focusing on decisions made after the completion of the transfer period in September.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 3 source articles, using AI-assisted synthesis under our methodology. It is our own text, not a copy of any single outlet. Read our methodology.

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4 reports

Slobodna Dalmacija logoSlobodna DalmacijaIndependentCenterFactual 88Objective 829/7/2026
Robert Graf: I'm very pleased with Levi, I think Marko is very important and can still be very important for Hajduk

Sportski direktor Hajduka Robert Graf komentira svoj mandat u klubu, pojačanja, budućnost tima i buduće poteze. U intervjuu za Novu TV, Graf objašnjava da je prijelazni rok bio dobar, ali još uvijek postoji puno posla, posebno zbog spremnosti Dendonckera za utakmice. Nije bio iznenađen ograničenim budžetom za pojačanja, a ističe da nisu dobili službenu ponudu za Michelea Šegu, koji želi ostati u Hajduku. Hrgović je također bio cilj, ali ponuda nije bila dovoljno visoka. Graf također objašnjava smanjenje godišnjih plaća igrača za oko 3 milijona eura, kao i potrebu za poboljšanjem procesa izbora novih igrača, uključujući psihološke testove. Gonzalo Garciju ocjenjuje kao vrlo dobru osobu i trenera za ofenzivu, a ističe da imaju zajedničku odgovornost u radu.

Bias read (Center): The article focuses on sports-related topics such as club management, player transfers, budget constraints, and coaching strategies. It does not involve political issues, government policies, or public debate. The tone remains neutral, presenting information based on the club’s internal decisions,球员

Why factuality (88): This article provides a detailed account of Graf’s comments, including specifics about player acquisitions, budget management, and strategic decisions. It accurately reports on the financial aspects and player evaluations, staying close to the original interview content.

Why objectivity (82): The article maintains a balanced tone, presenting both challenges (budget limitations) and successes (player acquisitions). There is minimal editorializing, and the focus remains on factual reporting rather than opinionated commentary.

Jutarnji list logoJutarnji listIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 759/7/2026
Graf talked about the drama with Levi, the reinforcements and the gem: "The offer wasn't good enough".

In a recent interview with Nova TV, Hajduk Split's sports director Robert Graf discussed the club's summer transfer market activities. The club successfully sold two players, Rokas Pukštas and Niko Sigur, for significant sums, while bringing in new signings like Carlos Martin and Leander Dendoncker. Graf noted that while expectations for Martin are high due to his background at Atlético Madrid, the club does not intend to add extra pressure on him. Regarding other potential transfers, Graf mentioned that while there was interest in Šimun Hrgović, the offer was not sufficient, and for Michele Šegu, no formal offer was received despite his desire to stay. He also addressed the performance of coach Gonzalo García, acknowledging areas for improvement but expressing confidence in his ability to build strong relationships with players. Finally, Graf commented on the disciplinary action against Marko Livaja at the start of the season, stating that the club implemented equal rules for all players and that Livaja accepted this decision, though he still needs to fight for his place in the starting lineup.

Bias read (Center): The article discusses sports-related topics such as player transfers, team management, and coaching decisions, which are not politically charged. The framing remains neutral, focusing on factual updates and quotes from club officials without introducing ideological perspectives.

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reflects the interview with Robert Graf from Nova TV, covering topics like player transfers, budget constraints, and team strategy. It mentions specific players and financial figures, aligning closely with the primary source. However, it slightly simplifies some points, such a

Why objectivity (75): The tone remains generally neutral, but there is a slight emphasis on positive outcomes like Graf’s satisfaction with Livaj and the potential impact of new signings. The article avoids strong emotional language but does present certain aspects more favorably than others.

Slobodna Dalmacija logoSlobodna DalmacijaIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 459/7/2026
Slaven Alfirević: Everything in Hajduk is now wonderful and beautiful! The president and the coach are the best, Pirić is no longer mentioned...

The article discusses the current success and optimism surrounding the football club Hajduk Split, highlighting their recent achievements such as leading the league and securing a spot in the Conference League after 16 years. The piece praises the club's leadership, including president Ivan Bilić, sports director Robert Graf, and coach Gonzalo Garcia, while noting the improved performance of player Marko Livaja. The article emphasizes the positive atmosphere within the club, contrasting past concerns about internal conflicts and uncertainty with the present stability and success.

Bias read (Center): The article focuses solely on sports-related topics, specifically the performance and management of a football club, with no mention of politics, public policy, or officials. There is no framing that suggests a political bias; the content remains purely celebratory of the team's achievements and does.

Why factuality (75): The article discusses Hajduk's current performance, claiming they are leading the league and have secured a place in European competition after 16 years. It mentions the absence of Pirić from discussions and attributes success to the president and coach. While these statements align with general pub

Why objectivity (45): The tone is highly positive and celebratory, using emotionally charged language like 'divno i krasno' and 'euforija.' It frames the team's success as inevitable and omits any critical perspectives or alternative viewpoints. The article appears to promote an optimistic narrative without acknowledging

Index.hr logoIndex.hrIndependentCenterFactual 50Objective 309/3/2026
The rascal brought a big name, but that's completely irrelevant.

Hajduk has signed Leander Dendoncker, a Belgian midfielder known for his defensive skills and experience playing in top leagues such as La Liga. Dendoncker previously played for clubs like Anderlecht, Wolverhampton, Aston Villa, Napoli, and Real Oviedo before joining Hajduk on a two-year contract. The move aligns with Hajduk's strategy under sports director Robert Graf, who emphasized improving the team's physicality, intensity, and mentality. Dendoncker's profile fits the club's needs, particularly in providing stability and defensive support. His arrival complements other players like Adrijo Pajaziti, Albert Del Moral, and Khalil Fayad, creating a balanced midfield setup with both offensive and defensive options.

Bias read (Center): The article focuses solely on a football transfer and does not involve any political figures, policies, or contentious issues. It provides factual information about the player's background, the club's strategy, and the implications for the team's performance. There is no evident ideological framing,

Why factuality (50): The article discusses Leander Dendoncker joining Hajduk Split, but this is unrelated to the primary source document about Dani Díaz. The content does not align with the original event being reported. It also lacks specific details about Dani Díaz or any connection to the Real Sociedad situation.

Why objectivity (30): The tone is promotional and celebratory, focusing on the significance of Dendoncker’s signing rather than presenting an objective report. There is no mention of the uncertainty around Dani Díaz’s potential transfer, making it highly biased towards the new player.

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