Dominik Kotarski

Dominik Kotarski, born on February 10, 2000, in Zabok, Croatia, is a professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for PAOK Salonika in Greece and the Croatian national team. Standing at 1.89 meters (6 feet 2 inches), Kotarski is known for his commanding presence in the box and his shot-stopping abilities.

Early Life and Development

Kotarski began his football journey at Tondach Bedekovčina, a local club, before joining the youth academy of Dinamo Zagreb in 2011. During his time at Dinamo, he developed his skills and gained valuable experience, setting the stage for his professional career.

Professional Career

• Jong Ajax (2018–2021): In 2018, Kotarski moved to the Netherlands to join Jong Ajax, the reserve team of AFC Ajax. Over three seasons, he made 60 appearances, showcasing his potential and earning recognition for his performances.
• Ajax (2019–2022): Although he was part of the first-team squad at Ajax, Kotarski did not make any appearances for the senior team during his tenure. His time at Ajax was primarily spent gaining experience and training with top-tier professionals.
• Loan to Gorica (2021–2022): Seeking regular first-team football, Kotarski was loaned to Croatian club Gorica for the 2021–2022 season. He made 24 appearances, further developing his skills and gaining valuable match experience.
• PAOK Salonika (2022–Present): In 2022, Kotarski signed with Greek Super League club PAOK Salonika. Since joining, he has become a key figure in the team's defense, making 81 appearances and contributing to the club's domestic and European campaigns.

International Career

Kotarski has represented Croatia at various youth levels, including U14, U15, U16, U17, U18, U19, and U20. He earned 15 caps for the U21 team between 2020 and 2023. In 2024, he made his senior debut for the Croatian national team, earning 2 caps to date.

Playing Style

Kotarski is known for his excellent reflexes, shot-stopping abilities, and commanding presence in the penalty area. His height and agility allow him to cover the goal effectively, while his distribution skills enable him to initiate attacks from the back.

Personal Life

While specific details about Kotarski's personal life are limited, his dedication to football and his rapid progression through the ranks suggest a strong commitment to his professional development.

Recent News

As of December 2024, Kotarski continues to be a vital part of PAOK Salonika's lineup, contributing to the team's successes in both domestic and European competitions. His performances have garnered attention, and he is considered a promising talent for the Croatian national team.

Dominik Kotarski's journey from the youth academies of Croatia to the senior national team and a prominent role in Greek football highlights his growth and potential as a goalkeeper. His career trajectory suggests a bright future ahead, both at the club and international levels.