Mladost part ways with head coach Zoran Bajić in late-season change

Croatian giants Mladost have confirmed the dismissal of head coach Zoran Bajić in a surprise move during the closing stages of the 2025/26 season.

The decision brings an end to Bajić’s tenure with the Zagreb-based club, with the team still competing in both domestic and European competitions. The club pointed to overall performance trends in recent months as the primary reason behind the change.

Despite the timing, Bajić’s period in charge included several notable achievements. Mladost won the Croatian Cup this season and returned to the Champions League, progressing to the Quarter Final Stage. The team has also remained in contention in the Croatian Championship, with the decisive phase of the season still to come.

In European competition, Mladost have faced some of the strongest teams on the continent, including Pro Recco and Ferencváros. Domestically, they have also taken on direct title rivals Jadran Split and Jug, but have struggled to secure consistent results in those key matchups.

The club’s leadership highlighted the absence of significant victories against top opposition since the turn of the year as a key factor in their decision. While results have kept Mladost competitive in the standings, performances have not consistently met expectations for a squad of their quality.

At the time of the coaching change, Mladost remain firmly in the title race in the Croatian League. They are level on points with Jug and sit just three points behind leaders Jadran Split, with important fixtures still to be played before the playoffs. The outcome of the season remains open, with the playoff stage expected to be decisive.

The timing of the decision indicates a desire from the club to make an impact ahead of the final stretch of the campaign. With both domestic and European objectives still in play, the change is aimed at improving performances in the most important matches of the season.

Following Bajić’s departure, assistant coach Hrvoje Hrestak has taken over first-team responsibilities. Hrestak, who has been part of the coaching structure, steps into the role as the team prepares for the closing phase of the season.

Mladost now enter a crucial period under new leadership, with the opportunity to compete for silverware still very much within reach.

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