Milan Badelj

Milan Badelj was born on February 25, 1989, in Zagreb, Croatia. He grew up in the city and began his journey in football, which would eventually lead him to become a professional footballer. His early life in Zagreb played a crucial role in shaping his football career, as he joined local youth clubs to hone his skills. Ultimately, Badelj's talent was recognized, leading him to a successful career at both club and international levels.

In 2002, Milan Badelj joined the youth academy of Dinamo Zagreb, one of the most prestigious football clubs in Croatia. This marked the beginning of his formal training in football and set the foundation for his future professional career. At Dinamo Zagreb, Badelj developed his skills as a midfielder, showcasing his potential and earning a place in the senior team. His time at the academy was instrumental in his development as a footballer.

Milan Badelj made his professional debut for Dinamo Zagreb on July 19, 2007, in a UEFA Cup qualifying match. This debut marked the beginning of his career as a professional footballer, and he quickly established himself as a key player for the team. His performances in the midfield helped Dinamo Zagreb secure numerous titles and solidified his reputation as a talented midfielder in Croatian football.

On August 31, 2012, Milan Badelj transferred from Dinamo Zagreb to Hamburger SV in the Bundesliga. The move to Germany was a significant step in Badelj's career as it exposed him to a more competitive league and increased his visibility in European football. At Hamburger SV, he became an important part of the squad, showing his versatility and midfield prowess in the German top flight, which further enhanced his career prospects.

Milan Badelj made his international debut for the Croatian national team on February 6, 2013, in a friendly match against South Korea. His introduction to the national team marked the beginning of a long and successful international career, where he would become a key player in the midfield. Badelj's international experience has been invaluable in many tournaments, including the UEFA European Championship and the FIFA World Cup.

Milan Badelj signed with Fiorentina in Italy's Serie A on August 30, 2014. This transfer marked a new chapter in his career, moving from the Bundesliga to one of Europe's top leagues. At Fiorentina, Badelj continued to demonstrate his skills as a central midfielder, becoming a fan favorite due to his technical ability, vision, and leadership on the field. His time in Serie A was highly successful, enhancing his reputation across Europe.

Milan Badelj was an integral part of the Croatian national team during the 2018 FIFA World Cup. On July 15, 2018, Croatia reached the World Cup final for the first time in history, playing against France. Although Croatia lost 4-2, the team's performance was widely praised, and Badelj's contributions in the midfield were crucial throughout the tournament. This achievement brought him recognition on the world stage.

On July 18, 2018, after the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Milan Badelj signed a contract with Lazio, another top club in Serie A. Joining Lazio was seen as a competitive move for Badelj, who was eager to continue playing at a high level in Italy. At Lazio, he took on a central role in the midfield, contributing to both defensive duties and offensive plays, further establishing his role as a key player in the Italian league.

Milan Badelj made a return to Fiorentina on October 10, 2019, after a loan spell. His return to the club was welcomed by the fans, as he had previously established himself as a crucial player during his first stint. This return allowed him to reclaim his position in the team and continue to influence games with his experience and skill in central midfield. His loyalty and commitment to Fiorentina were clear during this period.

On September 1, 2020, Milan Badelj was transferred to Genoa, continuing his career in Serie A. The move to Genoa represented another opportunity for Badelj to showcase his talents in a new environment. At Genoa, he was considered a valuable addition due to his vast experience in the league and his ability to control the game from the midfield, providing both defensive stability and creative playmaking.