**Rudeš, newly promoted from the Prva NL after winning the 2025-26 title, sit bottom of the 2026-27 HNL table after eight matches with just four points and a -14 goal difference, making them the clear early frontrunner for relegation.** Their leaky defense and limited attacking output have fueled trader consensus around their high implied probability of dropping back down. HNK Gorica and NK Slaven Belupo occupy the next lowest positions with similarly poor records and negative goal differences, though both have shown marginally better results in isolated games. Recent managerial shifts—including Silvijo Čabraja’s appointment at Slaven Belupo in early September—add uncertainty to mid-table and lower-table form. With the season still in its opening phase, early results, squad depth, and fixture difficulty will heavily influence whether the bottom sides can stabilize or if the gap widens before the winter break.