Martin Baturina

Martin Baturina (born 16 February 2003) is a Croatian professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder for HNL club Dinamo Zagreb and the Croatia national team.

Club career

Dinamo Zagreb

Baturina made his debut for Dinamo Zagreb II on 14 February 2021, when Dinamo's second team lost to Bijelo Brdo 1–0. He made his debut for Dinamo Zagreb's first team on 16 May 2021 in the 2020–21 season, in which they defeated Gorica 3–0. He made his debut in the Croatian Football Cup on 22 September, when Dinamo defeated Orient 4–1. Eight days later, he made his debut in the UEFA Europa League against Genk, which Dinamo won 3–0.

He scored his first goal for Dinamo on 5 March 2022 in a 3–0 victory over Šibenik. On the final matchday of the 2021–22 season, he scored a goal and provided an assist in a 3–1 win over Hajduk Split. On 6 September 2022, he debuted in the UEFA Champions League, in which Dinamo beat Chelsea 1–0. On 15 July 2023, he scored the only goal in the Super Cup match against Hajduk Split.

International career

Youth

Baturina has made appearances for the Croatian youth national teams of U15, U16, U18, U19, and U21.

Senior

Baturina received his first call-up to Croatia by head coach Zlatko Dalić for the Euro 2024 Qualifiers. On 18 November, he made his debut as a substitute in a 2–0 away win against Latvia.

On 20 May 2024. he was selected in the 26-man squad for the UEFA Euro 2024.

Style of play

Baturina has been described as one of Croatia's most exciting youth prospects. Similarly to his compatriot Luka Modric, he has been noted for his ability as a playmaker who can find space and provide key passes for a goal. He has also been praised for his first touch and ability to dribble and operate in tight spaces.