Meet Martin Baturina, Croatia’s Rising Midfield Star

Martin Baturina, the 23-year-old midfielder now with Como, is being presented as the next great Croatian playmaker after Luka Modric. He is the son of former Bnei Yehuda player Mato Baturina, who played in Israel’s Hatikva Quarter from 2003 to 2007 and was one of the most memorable foreign players in the club’s colors.

Baturina’s profile rose further at the 2026 World Cup opener, where he scored a superb goal for Croatia against England before Harry Kane made it 2-1. The article says his national-team goal against England was his second in 20 appearances for Croatia, doubling his previous tally.

His club career has moved quickly. After several seasons at Dinamo Zagreb, where he broke through as a major prospect, he transferred this summer to Como for 18 million euros. Under Cesc Fabregas, he became a key part of Como’s remarkable season, helping the club reach the Champions League for the first time in its history.

Across 34 appearances, Baturina recorded eight goals and four assists. His season included a crucial goal against Napoli, including in the penalty shootout, and he also helped Como reach the Italian Cup semifinals for the first time in 40 years. Transfermarkt currently values him at 30 million euros, and he is expected to lead Croatia in the coming years as Modric’s exit nears.