10 fun facts about David Alaba
David Alaba is an Austrian professional footballer who currently plays for Real Madrid in La Liga. He is known for his exceptional skills as a centre-back or left-back and also serves as the captain of the Austria national team. Alaba is widely regarded as one of the top defenders in the world, thanks to his…
David Alaba is an Austrian professional footballer who currently plays for Real Madrid in La Liga. He is known for his exceptional skills as a centre-back or left-back and also serves as the captain of the Austria national team. Alaba is widely regarded as one of the top defenders in the world, thanks to his versatility, technical abilities, and his ability to make significant contributions in both defensive and offensive positions on the field.
Alaba began his football journey in Bayern Munich’s youth system and was later promoted to the reserve team for the 2009-2010 season. In January 2011, he joined TSG 1899 Hoffenheim on loan until the end of the 2010-2011 season. Alaba returned to Bayern Munich at the start of the 2011-2012 season and quickly established himself as a key member of the first-team squad.
Throughout his time at Bayern, he made over 400 appearances and achieved remarkable success, winning 27 honors, including ten Bundesliga titles and two UEFA Champions League titles in 2013 and 2020, both as part of treble-winning seasons. His outstanding performances earned him a place in the UEFA Team of the Year on three occasions.
In 2021, Alaba made a move to Real Madrid, where he had an impressive debut season, winning the La Liga, Supercopa, and Champions League titles in the 2021-2022 season. Alaba’s impact on the field and his consistent excellence have solidified his reputation as one of the best defenders in the game.
On the international stage, Alaba made his debut for the Austrian national team at the age of 17, making him the second youngest player to represent Austria at the senior level. He has since earned over 100 caps and has represented his country in major tournaments such as UEFA Euro 2016 and UEFA Euro 2020. Here are a few fun facts about him.
1. Comes from a footballing family
David Alaba’s love for football is ingrained in his DNA. With a Nigerian professional footballer for a father and a professional basketball player for a mother, it’s no wonder that he developed an unwavering passion and exceptional talent for the game.
2. Worldwide kinship
The Alaba family is truly cosmopolitan. George, the father, hails from Nigeria and came to Vienna to pursue his studies in Economics. He later made history by becoming the first black guard soldier in the Austrian army.
David, born in Vienna on June 24, 1992, proudly displays his heritage by having the Filipino flag stitched onto his boots. Additionally, he proudly waved the Nigerian flag on the pitch at Wembley after Bayern’s triumphant victory in the 2012/13 UEFA Champions League final.
3. Child prodigy
“He played in the yard or on the playground with other children every day,” George Alaba explained when asked about David’s first steps in football. “Other parents saw him and were amazed at how he played.”
The talent was initially utilized by the local club Aspern before his father directed him towards Austria Vienna when he was just 10 years old. In April 2008, at the tender age of 15, he earned a spot on the first-team substitutes’ bench. Shortly after a few weeks, he embarked on his journey to Bayern.
4. Austria’s Youngest Player and Goalscorer
At the youthful age of 17, Alaba marked his debut for the Austrian national team, etching his name as the youngest player to ever represent the country. Additionally, he holds the remarkable distinction of being Austria’s youngest goalscorer in international football, as he found the back of the net for the first time at the age of 19.
5. Exceptional and versatile player
Alaba is often regarded as one of the most multifaceted players in contemporary football. Regardless of whether he takes on the role of a left-back, center-back, or defensive midfielder, Alaba consistently showcases his extraordinary abilities and flexibility on the pitch.
6. Champions League Winner
Alaba not only secured the UEFA Champions League victory with Bayern Munich in 2013 but has also consistently shined in the tournament over the years. His exceptional displays in Europe have solidified his position as one of the top defenders globally.
7. Recognized as Austria’s Best Athlete
Alaba has received numerous awards and accolades in his career, such as being recognized as Austria’s Sportsman of the Year on multiple occasions. This acknowledgment underscores his significant impact on Austrian football and his role as a revered national figure. Philanthropist and Inspirational Figure
In addition to his achievements in sports, Alaba is renowned for his charitable endeavors and dedication to supporting the community. He has been actively involved in various projects aimed at enhancing the well-being of disadvantaged children and advocating for equal opportunities for everyone.
8. Music lover
Alaba’s talents extend beyond the football field, as he possesses a deep passion for music. Not only is he a masterful pianist, but he has also ventured into the world of music by releasing his very own song. This not only highlights his creative flair but also showcases his diverse range of interests.
9. Spent long period with Bayern Munich
During his professional career, Alaba dedicated most of his time to playing for Bayern Munich. He established a strong partnership with the renowned defender, Phillip Lahm. Their collaboration played a crucial role in the club’s numerous achievements, such as winning multiple Bundesliga titles and securing a remarkable victory in the UEFA Champions League in 2013.
10. A Kyoto Sanga Academy Graduate
Alaba’s journey to Bayern Munich’s youth system began at the renowned Kyoto Sanga Academy in Austria, where he fine-tuned his skills. This prestigious academy has nurtured numerous talented players who have gone on to achieve great success in the world of football.
