Kotarski is now the first goalie of the Dynamo, giving him a chance he could only dream of.

Dominik Kotarski has become the first goalkeeper for Dinamo Zagreb under new coach Igor Bilić, marking a potential turning point for the club’s international representation. The 26-year-old Croatian keeper, who spent the last season with FC Kopenhagen, officially joined Dinamo on Monday evening after signing a loan deal. According to reports, Dinamo will retain Kotarski for the first season before purchasing his contract permanently, though financial details remain undisclosed. The move is estimated to cost around half a million euros for the loan alone. Kotarski, who had previously played for Dinamo during his youth and was part of their academy system, returns to the club he grew up with after eight years away. He left in 2018 to join Ajax, followed by spells with Gorička and PAOK, before moving to Kopenhagen. His return comes after Dinamo failed to bring back Dominik Livaković, who instead signed with Barcelona. With Livaković having been absent from the national team since the World Cup, Kotarski's arrival could position him as Croatia’s first-choice goalkeeper for the upcoming autumn matches. The timing of Kotarski’s return coincides with the start of the new campaign for Dinamo, which begins with a match against Gorica on Saturday. In his final season with Kopenhagen, Kotarski made six appearances, keeping five clean sheets, including a notable performance in a Danish league game against Randers on August 16. His experience and consistency have made him a key candidate for the national team, especially given the lack of other reliable goalkeepers available. Croatia’s new head coach, Igor Bilić, has already expressed interest in players who fit a specific profile, and while captain Josip Mišić remains a legitimate option for the national squad, his form has not been at its peak. Bilić reportedly dismissed Mišić’s suitability for the current setup, suggesting that the player might not make the initial call-up list. However, Mišić’s experience and leadership qualities could still play a role in future selections. Other potential candidates for the national team include forward Dion Drena Beljo, who has scored eight goals in ten games for Dinamo this season. With four upcoming matches against Spain, England, Czech Republic, and another European opponent, the need for a solid defensive presence is clear. Beljo’s consistent performances and ability to contribute offensively could see him earn minutes in the national team. Luka Stojković, another key player for Dinamo, also has ambitions for international recognition. While competition for starting positions exists among forwards such as Luka Sučić, Patrik Sučić, Mario Pašalić, and Vedran Vlašić, Stojković’s versatility allows him to fill multiple roles, including the right wing, where Croatia has struggled to find a reliable replacement for Marco Pašalić. The return of Kotarski represents more than just a tactical boost for Dinamo, it symbolizes a renewed connection between the club and one of its most loyal supporters. Having grown up in the club’s environment, Kotarski’s emotional ties to Dinamo are evident, and his commitment to making an impact both domestically and internationally is clear. As the season progresses, his performance will be crucial in determining whether Dinamo can reclaim its place as a dominant force in Croatian football and beyond.