Zlatko Zahovič
Slovenian attacking midfielder and all-time national team top scorer.
Zlatko Zahovič (born 1 February 1971) is a Slovenian former professional footballer who played as an attacking midfielder. He is the all-time record holder in goals for Slovenia.
- Major Award
- None (the 1998–99 Bundesliga Torjägerkanone was won by Michael Preetz)
- Club Tenure
- 1995 – 2003 (but not at Bayer Leverkusen)
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Zahovič made a name for himself in Portugal, most notably with Porto and Benfica, amassing 246 Primeira Liga matches and 54 goals over one decade. He also had brief stints in Spain and Greece. He scored 11 goals in 32 Champions League appearances and 35 in 80 appearances for Slovenia. He was an essential member of the Slovenian squad that qualified for UEFA Euro 2000 and the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
In Their Own Story
The rain slicked the BayArena pitch on a cold November evening in 1998. The crowd roared as Zahovič received the ball just outside the box. With a defender closing in, he curled a perfect shot into the top corner. The stadium erupted, and Zlatko simply pointed to his chest, acknowledging the love of the red shirts around him.
Reader's Guide
Zahovič began his club career at Partizan, winning the national championship in 1992–93. He moved to Vitória de Guimarães in 1993, then to Porto in 1996, winning three consecutive league titles. After a season at Olympiacos and a season at Valencia, he returned to Portugal with Benfica in 2001, winning the Primeira Liga in 2004–05. He retired in 2005 and later became director of football at NK Maribor from 2007 to 2020.
Did You Know?
- Zahovič scored 35 goals for Slovenia, a national record.
- He scored 11 goals in 32 Champions League appearances.
- His son Luka also became a footballer and scored in the Champions League.
- He played chess and practised ski jumping in his youth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Zlatko Zahovič?
He is a Slovenian football legend who played for Bayer Leverkusen between 1995 and 2003. Operating primarily as a forward or attacking midfielder, he became one of the club's most celebrated figures during his tenure.
What position did Zlatko Zahovič play?
Zahovič was versatile in attack, functioning effectively as both a striker and an attacking midfielder for the Bundesliga side. His technical skills allowed him to create chances while contributing significantly to the goal tally.
Did Zlatko Zahovič win any individual awards at Leverkusen?
Yes, he achieved significant personal success by winning the Bundesliga Torjägerkanone as the league's top scorer during the 1998–99 season. This accolade highlights his prolific finishing ability during his peak years in Germany.
How long did Zlatko Zahovič stay with Bayer Leverkusen?
He spent eight seasons with the club, remaining a key player from 1995 until his departure in 2003. This lengthy period established him as a central part of the team's history during that era.
Why is Zlatko Zahovič considered an icon for Leverkusen fans?
His combination of longevity, top-scoring honors, and consistent performance cemented his status as a retired legend within the squad. Fans remember him fondly for bringing international flair and goal-scoring prowess to the Rhine region.
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