Demirel Hodžić, a 21-year-old defensive midfielder, has arrived at Istra 1961 from Milan's B team, Milan Futuro. Born and raised in Sweden, for which he played at youth levels, Hodžić is of Bosnian origin. Saša Bjelanović stated that the player is a physically strong, left-footed midfielder who can cover both central and defensive positions. Bjelanović also noted that Hodžić's height and physical predispositions are valuable in duels and defensive tasks, and that he serves as a quality link between the defense and midfield. The season before last, he made 18 appearances and scored two goals in Serie C, and he spent the previous season on loan at Swedish club Örgryte IS. His market value is estimated by Transfermarkt to be €150k.