Riga Football Club midfielder Hrvoje Babec goes on loan to NK Osijek, a club in Croatia’s top football league. NK Osijek will have an option to buy him out in the summer from the Latvian side.
The 25-year-old Croatian, who joined Riga FC in the summer of 2022 for a notable transfer fee of €1.6 million, has been a key figure for the Latvian side, playing 91 matches, scoring 10 goals, and providing five assists.
Babec’s move to Osijek marks a return to his roots, as he is a product of the club’s academy. In his career in the Croatian top division, he has made 92 appearances, scored six goals, and provided five assists. This return gives him the chance to help his boyhood club finish the season strong.
“Osijek is my home, and my family is here. I am thrilled and proud, but I feel the responsibility to perform because results on the pitch matter. I appreciate the warm welcome and believe I fit in well; the teammates and staff are excellent. It’s my job to show my worth from the first training session. This has been my goal for a few years, and I’m glad it has finally come true. I’ve heard the fans’ reactions have been positive, and I thank everyone for that,” Hrvoje said after signing with Osijek.
During the 2023 Virslīga season, Babec featured in 28 matches for Riga FC, recording two goals and two assists. His consistent performances highlight his qualities as a midfielder, something that Osijek hopes to benefit from in the highly competitive Croatian league.
At the midway point of the season, NK Osijek sits fourth in the league table with 26 points.