The young Hajduk winger successfully underwent surgery for a severe knee injury and assured fans he will return stronger, though recovery will take at least nine months.
Hajduk Split footballer Roko Brajković (21) has spoken out on social media following a successful knee operation. The young winger suffered one of the most severe injuries in sports, which will keep him off the pitch for at least nine months.
The injury occurred during training ahead of the second leg of the Europa League second qualifying round against Cypriot side Pafos. Hajduk lost that match 4-0 after extra time and were eliminated from the competition despite an initial 2-0 lead from the first leg.
According to information from several Croatian media outlets, Brajković suffered tears to his anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments as well as his meniscus. He is expected to return to football no earlier than May next year.
"Some victories begin far from the pitch. Thank you all for the support, messages, and well wishes. With God's help, see you soon!" Brajković wrote on his social media alongside a photo from the hospital.
Brajković made his debut for Hajduk's first team in 2022, but he truly broke through in the spring of 2025 under then-coach Gennaro Gattuso. In the current season, he became a regular starter under coach Gonzalo García and established himself as an important player on the right wing.
He particularly stood out in the first leg against Pafos and with a brilliant goal against Slovakian side Žilina in the first qualifying round. In total, he has made 52 appearances for Hajduk in all competitions, scoring six goals and providing seven assists.
Brajković is a regular member of Croatia's youth national teams, having earned seven caps for the U-21 side. According to the specialized portal Transfermarkt, his market value is estimated at one million euros. His contract with Hajduk runs until the summer of 2029.
