Ana Maria Marković posted a video from the first training in Hajduk: "It's hot"

The Croatian football club Hajduk Split has made a notable move in its summer transfer window by signing Ana Maria Marković, a forward who previously played for Swiss side Grasshoppers and Portuguese team SF Damaiense. The 26-year-old player, who was born in Split but grew up in Switzerland, has returned to her hometown after several years abroad. Her return has been widely celebrated among fans, both locally and internationally, due to her emotional connection with the city and her successful career in European football. Marković’s journey began in Split, where she started playing football at a young age. She later moved to Switzerland, where she joined Grasshoppers and became a key player for the club. Her performances caught the attention of the wider football community, especially during the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, where she scored a crucial goal against Poland, helping Croatia qualify for the World Cup. Following her time in Switzerland, she moved to Portugal, where she continued to build her reputation as a reliable and skilled forward. Her return to Hajduk Split marks a significant moment for both the club and the player. Marković expressed her excitement about joining the club, stating that returning home is more than just a new chapter in her career, it represents a personal victory for her family and herself. She shared videos on social media showing her first training session with the team, wearing the number 23 jersey, and her initial days in Split. These posts have generated a lot of interest, with many fans expressing their support and enthusiasm for her return. Marković's arrival comes at a time when Hajduk is looking to strengthen its squad ahead of the upcoming season. The club has been active in the transfer market, seeking players who can contribute to its competitive ambitions. While Marković's signing is a major step, there are other developments happening simultaneously. For instance, there are reports suggesting that Hajduk could also be interested in signing Sory Diarra, a talented forward from Norwegian club Haugesund. Diarra, known for his physicality and scoring ability, has attracted interest from multiple clubs, including Bodø/Glimt and possibly Hajduk. The competition for Diarra is intense, with several clubs in Scandinavia and beyond showing interest. His potential addition to Hajduk would further bolster the team's attacking options, particularly given the recent departure of some key players. However, the situation is complex, as other players such as Michele Šego and Marko Livaja may find themselves needing to adjust their roles within the team structure. Šego, who was a key scorer last season, and Livaja, known for his versatility and work rate, will need to adapt to a potentially different tactical setup should Diarra join the squad. Meanwhile, the focus on Marković continues to grow. With over two million followers on Instagram and millions of views on TikTok, her presence on social media has amplified the anticipation around her return to Hajduk. Fans are eager to see how she performs in the Croatian league, especially considering her experience in top-tier European competitions. Her ability to connect with supporters and her history of success make her a valuable asset to the club. As the transfer window progresses, Hajduk will continue to monitor developments, ensuring they remain competitive in the league. The club's strategic moves, whether through signings or other means, will play a crucial role in shaping the team's performance in the coming seasons. For Marković, the challenge is to quickly integrate into the squad and help Hajduk achieve its goals. Her return to Split is not just a personal milestone but also a statement of confidence in the club's future.