NK Varaždin is in talks to sign Scottish goalkeeper Robby McCrorie. According to a report by British tabloid The Sun, the 28-year-old international would join the club as a free agent this week, replacing Oliver Zelenika who moved to Cypriot side APOEL.
Who is Robby McCrorie?
Robby McCrorie is a goalkeeper who spent most of his career at Scottish side Rangers, leaving the club in 2024 due to a lack of playing time. He subsequently played for Kilmarnock and spent last season on loan at Danish club Esbjerg. During Steve Clarke's tenure as national team manager, he regularly received call-ups to the Scotland squad but was not selected for the World Cup. His market value, according to Transfermarkt, is around €600,000. McCrorie hopes that regular playing time at Varaždin will open the door for a return to the national team under new manager Sebastien Pocognoli.
How does he fit into the current squad?
McCrorie's arrival creates strong competition for the goalkeeper position at Varaždin. The current first choice is young Josip Silić, who has played every official match this season. The manager will now have an experienced international and a talented domestic player at his disposal, fostering a healthy competitive environment. You can always check the team lineup on our squad page. This change in goal comes at a key point in the season, with NK Varaždin facing important matches ahead, as visible on the fixtures schedule.
What is the context of this transfer?
This potential transfer is part of a broader plan to strengthen the team for the second part of the competitive season. The club has already shown its intent to secure quality and depth in all areas. McCrorie would be the first signing from the British Isles in this transfer window for Varaždin. His experience from higher-level competitions could be of great value to the young squad. NK Varaždin currently occupies a mid-table position in the HNL, and you can follow the live standings.
What does this mean for the club's future?
Signing an experienced international like McCrorie demonstrates the club's ambition to stabilize the number one goalkeeper spot after the unexpected departure of captain Zelenika. It is a strategic move meant to provide defensive security and build confidence throughout the team. Long-term, the combination of experience and youth in that position could bring stability. The club will now continue preparations for upcoming challenges, with a clear goal of improving results as the season progresses.
