FOOTBALL LEGEND IVAN GUDELJ DIES AT 66

Former Yugoslavia international footballer and Hajduk Split legend Ivan Gudelj has died at the age of 66, the Croatian club announced on Wednesday.

Gudelj spent his entire playing career with Hajduk Split, joining the club as a youngster before becoming one of its most celebrated players. He made 362 appearances and scored 93 goals for the club between 1976 and 1986.

At international level, Gudelj represented Yugoslavia 33 times and scored three goals. He became the national team’s captain at the age of 22 and featured at the 1982 FIFA World Cup in Spain and the 1984 European Championship.

His playing career was cut short in 1986 after he was diagnosed with hepatitis B, forcing him to retire at the age of 26 while he was being linked with a move to French club Bordeaux.

Following his retirement, Gudelj remained involved in football as a coach. He worked with Hajduk Split and several Croatian youth national teams.

Hajduk Split described Gudelj as one of the most prominent players of his generation and a true club legend.

His death has prompted tributes from the football community, particularly in Croatia, where he is remembered for his contribution to Hajduk Split and Yugoslav football.