1993 DFB-Pokal Final vs Karlsruher SC
German left-back known for powerful free kicks and a memorable stint in goal for Bayern Munich.
Michael Tarnat (born 27 October 1969) is a German former professional footballer, currently employed by Bayern Munich as the leader of the U12–U16 youth teams. A left-footed full-back, he was also employed as a left wingback and occasionally as a defensive midfielder. His nickname is "Tanne", meaning "fir" in English. He ended his career with Hannover 96, having previously played for MSV Duisburg, Karlsruher SC, Bayern Munich and Manchester City. A veteran of 19 caps for Germany, Tarnat also participated in the 1998 FIFA World Cup. He is renowned for his powerful free kicks and similar long-shots with his strong left foot.
Quick Facts
- Key figure
- Ulf Kirsten (Winning penalty)
Lore & Background
Tarnat started his professional career in 1990 when he joined MSV Duisburg. He made his Bundesliga debut on 2 August 1991 and scored his first Bundesliga goal on 27 August 1993. He moved to Karlsruher SC in the summer of 1994 and grew into one of the team's stars. In 1997, Bayern Munich bought him. He played well on his left flank, good enough to give star left full-back Bixente Lizarazu almost a full season on the bench. In Bayern Munich's away match against Eintracht Frankfurt in the 1999–2000 Bundesliga season, Tarnat memorably played half an hour in the second half as a goalkeeper after injuries to Oliver Kahn and Bernd Dreher. Bayern trailed 0–1, scored the equaliser two minutes after Tarnat entered, and won 2–1. He made a move to Manchester City in 2003, then returned to Germany by signing with Hannover 96 a year later. He retired from professional football in 2009.
Reader's Guide
Tarnat was German champion in 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2003, won the DFB-Pokal in 1998, 2000 and 2003 and the UEFA Champions League in 2001. He also played in the 1999 UEFA Champions League Final. In six seasons at Bayern, he made 122 Bundesliga appearances and scored eight goals. At Manchester City, he made 32 Premier League appearances and scored three goals. He earned 19 caps for Germany and participated in the 1998 FIFA World Cup, appearing in four matches. In the group game against Yugoslavia, his free kick led to Siniša Mihajlović scoring an own goal.
More in Iconic Matches & Defining Games
Elsewhere in Bayer Leverkusen
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced