Biography
Who is Milan Badelj?
Early life and career beginnings
Milan Badelj was born in Gajnice, Croatia, on February 25, 1989. He began his football path within the youth system of NK Zagreb. In 2007, he signed with Dinamo Zagreb as a seventeen-year-old. To gain senior-level experience, the club sent him on loan to their affiliate, NK Lokomotiva, for the 2007 to 2008 season.
During his time with Lokomotiva, Milan played in 28 matches and scored seven goals in the Croatian Third League. This stint provided the foundational experience necessary for his transition into professional football at the highest level in Croatia.
Success with Dinamo Zagreb
In 2008, Milan joined the first team at Dinamo Zagreb. He quickly established himself as a regular starter. His senior debut occurred in a Champions League qualifier against the Northern Irish team Linfield. Shortly after, he scored in his domestic debut against Rijeka. Over the next several seasons, he became a central figure for the team.
Throughout his tenure, Milan helped Dinamo Zagreb achieve significant domestic success. He won the Prva HNL title four consecutive times from 2009 to 2012. Also, he lifted the Croatian Cup three times and the Croatian Super Cup once. His performances in the 2011 to 2012 UEFA Champions League group stage marked a significant return for the club after a long absence.
International career and clubs
Milan Badelj played for Hamburger SV in the Bundesliga starting in 2012. He made his debut against Werder Bremen and scored his first goal against Schalke 04. In 2014, he moved to Serie A, joining Fiorentina for several seasons. He also played for Lazio, where he won the Coppa Italia in the 2018 to 2019 season. In 2020, he signed a three-year contract with Genoa.
On the international stage, he represented Croatia across multiple youth levels. He earned his first senior cap and featured in tournaments including the UEFA Euro 2012, 2016, and 2020. He was part of the 2014 World Cup squad. During the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, he helped Croatia reach the final, where they finished as runners-up. He scored a goal against Iceland during that tournament.
Retirement and transition
In August 2025, Dinamo Zagreb announced that Milan Badelj agreed to return to the club to take on a new position within their academy. This move marked the end of his active playing career after years of professional experience across Europe. He received the Order of Duke Branimir in 2018 for his contributions to the sport.
Birthday and age
Milan Badelj was born on February 25, 1989, which makes Milan 37 years old today. That birthday falls under the Pisces sign. Milan shares the date with 67 other famous people.
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