Thomas Helmer

Lore & Background

Helmer began his professional career with Arminia Bielefeld, playing four games late in 1984–85. In the following season, he netted five goals in 35 second division matches, prompting interest from Borussia Dortmund, which signed him in 1986. He scored 16 goals during his six-season stint with Dortmund. In 1992, he joined Bayern Munich in controversial circumstances after a brief spell with Lyon. He was also an integral part of an ascendant Bayern Munich team of the late-1990s, winning three league titles, one cup and three League cups, adding the 1995–96 UEFA Cup. Upon leaving Bayern in 1999, he moved to Sunderland but made only two league appearances, then returned to Germany on loan with Hertha BSC before retiring.

In Their Own Story

The rain slicked the pitch at the Städtisches Stadion on a chilly autumn evening in 1992. As the opposing winger made a break down the flank, Thomas Helmer didn't panic; he accelerated with his characteristic heavy stride. With a perfectly timed slide tackle that sent grass flying but kept the ball clean, he intercepted the pass and immediately launched a long, diagonal ball over the midfield. The crowd roared, not just for the defensive clearance, but for the sheer confidence of their world-champion left-back who turned defense into attack in a heartbeat.

Reader's Guide

Helmer made his full international debut for Germany on 10 October 1990. He started in consecutive UEFA European Championship finals, winning in 1996 and being runner-up in 1992. He also appeared in two FIFA World Cups (1994 and 1998). He was known for tripping Josip Weber during the 1994 World Cup in the penalty area but the referee did not make a call.

Did You Know?

• Helmer scored once in the 1995–96 UEFA Cup final's first leg against Bordeaux.
• He served as Germany's ambassador to children's charity 'FIFA for SOS Children's Villages' starting in 1997.
• Helmer was a member of the Supervisory board of Arminia Bielefeld from 19 July 2011 to 15 December 2015.