Ana Maria Marković: Croatia's most beautiful footballer fulfills lifelong dream joining Hajduk

Poljud Stadium has welcomed a new, high-profile reinforcement, not in the men's team, but in the women's locker room. Croatian champions Hajduk Split have signed Ana Maria Marković, a 26-year-old forward, marking a significant addition to their squad.

For Marković, the move to Split is particularly emotional as her maternal family originates from the city. She expressed that joining Hajduk represents the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, stating, "Hajduk has always been more than a club to my family and me. Following Hajduk from the diaspora was part of our daily life, and now wearing this jersey at Poljud brings special pride and responsibility. I can't wait to run out in front of our fans, give my maximum on the field, and help the team achieve all its goals this season."

Born in Zurich and raised in Switzerland, Marković's athletic journey began not with football, but with gymnastics, dedicating ten years to the sport. She transitioned to football at 14, inspired by the growing popularity of women's football and her younger sister Kristina. Her early career included stints at local club Schlieren and the youth academy of FC Zürich.

She gained significant experience playing over 60 official matches for rival club Grasshopper, reaching the domestic cup final in the 2021/2022 season. Her strong performances earned her a call-up to the Croatian national team in 2021, a moment she had long awaited. Marković quickly became a key player, scoring her first national team goal in a World Cup qualifier against Moldova.

Despite a career setback in March 2023 due to a severe anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus tear, Marković has sought new beginnings abroad. She played for Braga and Damaiense in Portugal before a stint in the United States with Brooklyn alongside her sister Kristina. Additionally, she has co-founded RELOADZ, a startup focused on innovative vegan protein drinks.

“

Hajduk is more than a club to my family and me. Following Hajduk from the diaspora was part of our daily life, and now wearing this jersey at Poljud brings special pride and responsibility. I can't wait to run out in front of our fans, give my maximum on the field, and help the team achieve all its goals this season.