Former Dnipro forward Kalinic ends his career and becomes Hajduk’s sporting director
Former Ukrainian football star Nikola Kalinic has officially announced his retirement from professional football. The 33-year-old striker, who played for Dnipro from 2011 to 2015, has decided to hang up his boots and embark on a new journey as Hajduk’s sporting director.
Kalinic’s career began in his hometown club Hajduk Split, where he quickly caught the eye of top European clubs with his impressive performances. In 2011, he joined Dnipro and became one of their key players, scoring 51 goals in 142 appearances for the club.
During his time at Dnipro, Kalinic helped the team reach the Europa League final in 2015, where they narrowly lost to Sevilla. His exceptional goal-scoring abilities and leadership skills made him a fan favorite and earned him the captain’s armband.
After leaving Dnipro, Kalinic played for Italian side Fiorentina, before returning to his home country to play for AC Milan and Atalanta. However, injuries and lack of playing time forced him to reconsider his career options.
In a heartfelt statement, Kalinic thanked all the clubs he played for, as well as his teammates, coaches, and fans for their support throughout his career. He also expressed his gratitude to his family, who have always been his biggest motivation.
«I am grateful for all the unforgettable moments I experienced on the pitch. It was an honor to represent my country and play against some of the best players in the world. But now, I feel it’s the right time to retire and focus on my new role at Hajduk,» said Kalinic.
Hajduk, one of the most successful Croatian clubs, has been going through a rough patch lately. The team has failed to win any major trophies in recent years, and their fans have been waiting for a change in leadership. And with the appointment of Kalinic as the sporting director, the club is hoping for a brighter future.
Kalinic’s knowledge and experience in the football world will be a valuable asset for Hajduk. As a former player, he understands the game and knows what it takes to succeed at the highest level. His passion for the club and his determination to bring back the glory days will surely inspire the players and the fans.
«I am excited about this new challenge and the opportunity to give back to the club that gave me so much. I want to help Hajduk reach its full potential and bring joy to our fans. We have a talented squad, and I believe that with hard work and dedication, we can achieve great things,» added Kalinic.
Hajduk fans have welcomed the news with open arms and have high hopes for the future. They believe that with Kalinic’s leadership, the team will be able to compete for titles and make their mark in European football once again.
Kalinic’s retirement may have brought an end to his playing career, but it marks the beginning of a new chapter for him and for Hajduk. The club legend will now use his experience and expertise to shape the future of the team and leave a lasting legacy.
We wish Nikola Kalinic all the best in his new role and thank him for the unforgettable moments he gave us on the pitch. His dedication and passion for the game will surely continue to inspire future generations of footballers. The football world will miss you, Kalinic.
