In Conversation with New Signing Martin Baturina

Meet Martin Baturina, Como 1907’s new signing from Dinamo Zagreb. He’s an avid gamer, UFC and NBA enthusiast, and a self-proclaimed fan of psychological thrillers. BLU caught up with Baturina to discuss how he’s adjusting to life in Como, the allure of Italian football, and what it’s like playing alongside Croatian teammate Ivan Smolčić. Here’s an inside look at this ambitious young talent.

Q: Tell us about your first impressions of Como, the team, and the city.
Baturina: The first visit was very nice. I saw Lake Como—beautiful city, beautiful lake. First training session was very good. The players are very friendly, the coach is ambitious, and the whole team is ambitious. I’m just happy to be here.

Q: What made you decide to join Como? Did you have any expectations before coming?
Baturina: Yes. I watched Serie A and I watched Como. When I heard they were interested in me, I was happy. The coach called, showed me the plans for the future, and I really liked them.

Q: You already knew Ivan Smolčić from before. Have you met him previously?
Baturina: We were rivals in Croatia—our clubs were two of the best, so it was a big rivalry. Off the pitch we’re friends, and I’m happy he’s here so I have a fellow Croatian with me. He’s a top player and I’m happy to play with him. We also played together once for the Croatia U-21 national team, so I know him from before.

Q: Do you have a football idol, someone you really look up to?
Baturina: I wouldn’t say I have one idol, but I love watching Messi, Modrić, and Cristiano—basically the best players. I enjoy learning from them.

Q: People say you’re “the next Modrić.” What do you think of that?
Baturina: I don’t think there will ever be another Modrić; we have different styles. But I probably share some qualities with him—that’s why people make the comparison. We’ve been together with the national team and we’re very good friends.

Q: Are you excited to face him when Como plays Milan?
Baturina: Of course! I’ve never played against him. It won’t be easy, but I’m looking forward to it.

Q: Do you follow any other sports or athletes who inspire you?
Baturina: Yes. I watch the NBA and UFC a lot. I used to support the Golden State Warriors, but now I just enjoy watching without a favorite team.

Q: Curry or LeBron?
Baturina: Curry is my favorite, but LeBron has had the better career.

Q: Any UFC fighters you look up to?
Baturina: I really like Ilia Topuria. He has a great mindset, and I admire that.

Q: What advice would you give someone who wants to become a footballer?
Baturina: I’m not great at giving advice, but I’d say: be yourself, don’t be afraid of anything, and play the way you know.

Q: Your father was very present in your career?
Baturina: Yes, he was a footballer too, but he never pressured me. He always told me: “Be yourself, enjoy, and just play.”

Q: Do you have any pre-game rituals?
Baturina: I just pray before the game that no one gets injured. That’s it.

Q: Tell me more about gaming.
Baturina: I’ve gamed all my life. Whatever my friends play, I’ll play too. It’s not about me, it’s about us.

Q: Any games you like besides FIFA?
Baturina: When I was younger I played Fortnite, Call of Duty—any action game. I enjoy those a lot.

Q: Do you like action movies too?
Baturina: Actually, I prefer psychological or fantasy movies. Action is too real; I see enough action in life. I like some mystery and fantasy on screen.

Q: Which movie could you watch over and over?
Baturina: Interstellar..

Q: What do you think of Serie A in general?
Baturina: It’s one of the best leagues in the world. There are many great teams and the fans are amazing.

Q: What’s the first activity you’d like to do to explore Como?
Baturina: When I arrived I saw the seaplanes and thought they looked fun, so I might try a flight one day.

Q: Last question: What are your goals for the season? Being a young talent surrounded by other young talents, what motivates you?
Baturina: Personally, I want to win games and become a better player—a better version of myself. As a team, we’re very ambitious. We want to win as many games as we can and see where that takes us.