HNK Rijeka registers squad for Europe without Legba and Morčiladze

HNK Rijeka has registered 22 players for the second qualifying round of the Conference League, omitting winter signings Dimitrij Legba and Tornike Morčiladze. Manager Matjaž Kek has dropped two players who arrived in the winter transfer window, signaling they have no significant role in his plans. Rijeka currently sits 4th in the HNL with 53 points (14W-11D-11L), and their recent form is WDWWD.

Who was left out of the squad?

The biggest surprise is the omission of Legba and Morčiladze, players who joined in the winter transfer window. Both received limited playing time in the second half of the season, and Kek's decision confirms they will need to seek minutes and affirmation elsewhere. The squad also lacks Jakov Puljić due to a nose injury, which will keep him out of the matches against Derry City.

What does the registered squad look like?

The registered players are set up for a 4-2-3-1 formation and cover most positions. Goalkeepers: Todorović, Nwolokor. Defense: Majstorović, Barco, Husić, Živković, Oreč, Devetak, Lasickas, Bodetić. Midfield: Dantas, Pavić, Ćubelić, Cletus, Fruk, Vignato, Gojak, Janković, Rukavina. Attack: Adu-Adjei, Jurić, Saho.

What's next for Rijeka?

HNK Rijeka will enter their first European tests without Puljić, who brings experience and quality in the final third. Their next match is at home against HNK Gorica (8th in the table) on November 21, 2026. Rijeka is in European competition without two winter signings, and Kek's decision reveals his plans for the season.