Krovinović surpris par le choix après son départ de Hajduk: il va dans un club culte

Filip Krovinović has officially signed with Grêmio, one of Brazil’s most storied football clubs, marking a new chapter in his career after five years with Hajduk Split. The Croatian midfielder will undergo medical examinations in Porto Alegre before finalizing a contract with the Brazilian club through the end of the 2028 season. His move comes after he agreed to a mutual termination of his contract with Hajduk, which included him waiving part of his remaining salary to facilitate the release. Krovinović's departure from Hajduk was anticipated, given that he had been less prominent in recent seasons. The mutual agreement allowed the club to reduce its squad size and financial commitments. Now, he is set to join Grêmio, a team known for producing some of the world’s greatest players, including Ronaldinho and Luis Suárez. The transition from Croatia to Brazil represents a significant shift for Krovinović, who previously played for several European clubs, including Rio Ave, Benfica, West Bromwich Albion, and Nottingham Forest. He joined Hajduk in 2021 and became a key player in their midfield, contributing significantly to their success in domestic competitions over the past five seasons. Grêmio currently sits near the bottom of the Brazilian league, but the club boasts a roster filled with experienced players and emerging talents. Among them is Gabriel Mec, a promising young talent being watched by numerous European clubs. Krovinović will also join seasoned defenders such as Fabián Balbuena and Cristian Pavón, along with forwards like Willian, Teté, and Martin Braithwaite, all of whom have experience playing in top European leagues. Grêmio, based in Porto Alegre, is one of Brazil’s most prestigious football clubs, having won two national titles, five domestic cups, and three Copa Libertadores trophies. The club has produced legendary players such as Ronaldinho, Luis Suárez, and Douglas Costa, making it a fitting destination for Krovinović, who will become the first Croatian player in the history of Brazilian football to wear the Grêmio jersey. Krovinović’s decision to move to Brazil was influenced by his previous relationship with Luís Castro, the club’s current coach. The two worked together during Krovinović’s time at Rio Ave in Portugal, and their paths are likely to cross again in Brazil. This connection adds another layer of significance to his move, as it brings together familiar faces from his earlier career. The move to Grêmio signals a new phase for Krovinović, who will now compete in one of South America’s toughest leagues. With a blend of veteran players and rising stars, Grêmio aims to climb the league table while providing a platform for Krovinović to showcase his skills on a larger stage. His arrival is expected to bring both tactical depth and international experience to the squad, potentially revitalizing the team’s performance in the upcoming season.