Established in the yesteryear of 1911, in the heartlands of the Balkans, Dinamo Zagreb are a Croatian football entity of some repute. Their fortress, Stadion Maksimir, is a name whispered with a distillate measure of respect in Croatian football circles.
The uncloaked strength of Dinamo Zagreb's playing squadron isn't something to be downcast about. One might say that the total market value is a chestful of around £69m, according to the numbers crunchers at Transfermarkt.
Dinamo fields a rather bustling contingent of 36 players. The average age tots up to a spry 25 - a formidable mix of untamed vigour and seasoned experience, one could argue.
Perseverance is imprinted in the very fabric of Dinamo Zagreb, exemplified in their active participation in not one or two, but three competitions this season. They have made a commendable display in the HNL, finding themselves in a dignified third place. Their ambition didn't stop at domestic boundaries as they embarked on a stirring journey in the Champions League. After a gritty showing in the qualifying play-offs, they have carved their spot in the group stages of the tournament - a feat not to be taken lightly.