Turkish defender who won the UEFA Cup with Galatasaray in 2000 and played for several European clubs, including Aston Villa and Fenerbah�e. Known for his tough tackling and aerial ability.
Alpay Özalan is a name etched in the annals of Turkish football history, a towering figure known for his unwavering dedication, unrelenting passion, and unmatched skill on the pitch. With 90 international caps under his belt, Özalan is Turkey's seventh-most capped player of all time, earning him a revered status among Turkish football enthusiasts.
Özalan's senior career began at Soma Linyitspor in the TFF Third League, where his exceptional talent and impressive performances caught the attention of Turkey's top clubs. In 1993, he made the move to Beşiktaş, one of the country's most esteemed teams, where he spent six years, playing 148 matches and scoring nine goals.
During his time at Beşiktaş, Özalan set an unfortunate record in the Süper Lig, earning three red cards in a span of just six months. However, this did not deter his growth as a player, and he went on to become an integral part of the Turkish national team.
Özalan's stellar performances at Euro 2000 led to a move to English club Aston Villa, where he became a fan favorite. His partnership with Olof Mellberg as central defensive partners was highly acclaimed, until an ankle injury sidelined him for the remainder of the season.
Despite this setback, Özalan recovered in time for the 2002 World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in Turkey's historic third-place finish. His exceptional performances earned him a spot in the FIFA World Cup All-Star Team, with top clubs like Barcelona and Internazionale taking notice.
After hanging up his boots, Özalan ventured into football management, taking the reins at Samsunspor. In 2018, he embarked on a new journey, becoming a member of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, representing the Justice and Development Party (AKP).
Alpay Özalan's influence on Turkish football extends beyond his impressive playing career. He has been an inspiration to countless young footballers, and his dedication to the sport has paved the way for future generations.
Today, Özalan remains an iconic figure in Turkish football, celebrated for his unwavering commitment, his unrelenting passion, and his unparalleled achievements on the pitch.
"I always gave my all on the pitch, and I expect the same from my players. That's the only way to achieve success."
"Football is not just a game; it's a way of life. You have to be fully committed to succeed."
Özalan's life has not been without controversy. In 2003, he was involved in a highly publicized feud with Turkish football legend, Hakan Şükür. However, he has since spoken publicly about the incident, attributing it to a misunderstanding.
Today, Özalan remains a respected figure in Turkish football, celebrated for his achievements on and off the pitch.
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Turkish footballer and manager who played for clubs like Be?ikta? and Istanbulspor, and later managed several teams, including the Turkish national team. He's known for his successful managerial career and contributions to Turkish football.
