Marko Livaja (foto: Uradni facebook profil kluba)
Marko Livaja rejected a lucrative offer from UAE giants Al-Ahli, reveals former coach Marko Nikolić, who praised the striker’s loyalty and character.
Marko Livaja’s popularity has long surpassed Croatian borders. His dominant displays in the SuperSport HNL have caught the attention of some of the wealthiest clubs in world football—including those in the United Arab Emirates.
One such club was Shabab Al-Ahli from Dubai, who attempted to sign the Hajduk Split captain in a big-money deal. But Livaja, widely regarded as Hajduk’s most influential player and spiritual leader, said no—without hesitation.
The story was confirmed by Marko Nikolić, now head coach of CSKA Moscow, who previously managed Al-Ahli.
“There was no chance”
“I remember him from Inter, when he played against Partizan as a kid. I also remember him at AEK, when I was coaching Videoton,” Nikolić said on the Denis Podcast.
“Last season I wanted to bring him in, but there was no chance. About a year and a half, maybe two years ago, at Shabab Al-Ahli. That’s how highly I rate him as a player. And he has a real personality—and I like that. I don’t like players who don’t have it. My job is to build relationships, but I like those guys who have courage, to put it politely,” he added.
Loyalty to Split
While many players would have accepted the financial offer, Livaja remained loyal to his hometown club and the passionate fans of Hajduk Split. His decision to stay, despite interest from abroad, only reinforced his cult status in Split.
Since returning to Hajduk, Livaja has made 161 appearances, scoring 88 goals and delivering 42 assists—a remarkable tally for a player whose connection to the club goes beyond the pitch.