Central Coast Mariners have loaned out teenager Anthony Kalik to Hajduk Split in Croatia until at least June 2016.
Kalik, who is contracted to the Mariners until the end of the Hyundai A-League 2016/17 season, will depart for Europe to join one of the most iconic clubs in Croatian football in what is a dream come true for the young attacker.
An Australian Institute of Sport graduate, Kalik signed with the Mariners as the youngest ever Hyundai A-League recruit at just 15 years of age alongside Liam Rose in 2013.
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Head Coach Tony Walmsley was excited at the opportunity for Kalik, 18, and noted the value of regular game time to the development of young players.
“Hadjuk Split is a big club with a great history. This is a real growth opportunity for Anthony,” Walmsley said.
“Anthony has so much potential but there just aren’t enough games for players not selected for him to develop the way we would like.
“He also needs the challenge of living away from home to understand that the demands on professional footballers are global.
“This agreement works for the Mariners. Anthony will return for pre season with a great life and football experience at this stage, while there is also the opportunity for a transfer should he impress,” Walmsley said.
