Asmir Begović: The Bosnian Goalkeeper Who Became a Premier League Legend
Asmir Begovič was born on the 20th of June, 1987. Currently serving as Everton’s goalkeeper, he is a professional football player from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Begovič began his professional career with English side Portsmouth, signing to them in the summer of 2003.
Asmir Begovič’s height has always given him an edge between the posts — his commanding presence makes him a great shot-stopper in the Premier League. Asmir Begović’s net worth has grown substantially over the years, reflecting both his talent and longevity in the game, having played for top clubs like Chelsea FC and Stoke City.
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The rest of this article will explore the remarkable life of this Bosnian detailing how he became a Premier League Legend.
Asmir Begović: Through The Years
- Begović played for Canada at youth level and represented the nation in the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
- In 2009 he decided to change allegiance and represent Bosnia & Herzegovina, his native country.
- May 2009 saw his Premier League debut; in February 2010 he was transferred to Stoke City for £3.25 million.
- In the 2012-13 season, he took part in every league game and earned the team’s Player of the Year award.
- Becoming Bosnia and Herzegovina’s finest goalie, Begović helped them to qualify for their first major tournament, the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
- In July 2015, he was signed to Chelsea for £8 million. He will go on to spend two successful years with the Blues at Stamford Bridge.
- After his time at Chelsea, he moved to Bournemouth in 2017. His English career still saw him move to Queens Park Rangers, before moving to Everton.
Begović Broke a World Record in 2013
Begović shocked Southampton and her loyal fans on the 2nd of November in 2013 with a goal from 97.5 yards away, 13 seconds into the match, as Artur Boruc was fooled by his (Begović’s) long ball downfield. After thirteen seconds, his kick was carried by the wind and found its way into the Saints’ goal, going over Artur Boruc.
This epic moment was officially recognised in 2015 by the Guinness World Records for the ‘‘longest goal scored in football.’’ Even though the match ended in a draw, that stellar goal still resounds in the football world.
After achieving such a feat, Begović remarked: ‘‘I feel amazing to be honoured in this way and as a goalkeeper I didn’t expect this to happen, not for this type of record anyway…I will take it though and enjoy it.’’
Since then, the record has been surpassed by Thomas King, who scored another long ranger.
Begović’s Toughest Opponent
The 37-year-old has stopped some of the finest players that have ever graced the game during his career. Particularly throughout his two seasons at Stamford Bridge, Begovic has also had the good fortune to play on the same team as some of them. However, only one star caught his attention.
When interviewed by his former Portsmouth colleague and broadcaster Jamie O’Hara to name the hardest opponent he has ever faced, he mentioned the one and only CR7: “The best I played against was Cristiano Ronaldo…He was pretty difficult to stop. There’s no getting away from it.’’
He also made reference to three elite footballers: “Aguero was never easy to play against…I have to mention Fernando Torres…He was just incredibly powerful. Those first few steps, he just washed people away. Him and [Luis] Suarez at Liverpool, one after each other was not easy.’’
His Support for UNHCR as Refugee
First landing in Germany then relocating to Canada, Asmir was forced to run away from his house in Bosnia and Herzegovina at an early age. After a difficult beginning in life, the keeper has had a remarkable career playing for some of the top football teams worldwide. Begovič participated in the first-ever World Cup for Bosnia & Herzegovina in 2014.
Asmir participated in a Pro Evolution Soccer event versus FC Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies in April 2020 to help UNHCR (United Nations Refugee Agency) with their Covid-19 response. Since 2020, he has been helping UNHCR, using his prominent status to spread awareness and generate money in aid of displaced people.
Regarding his path as a refugee, Asmir commented: “It definitely instilled that resilience and mental toughness in me. I saw things first-hand that kids shouldn’t see. To come out of those circumstances and do what I’ve been blessed to do for many years now, no negative times get me down…”
Final Thoughts
The path Asmir Begović took to Premier League glory is rather remarkable and inspirational. He has broken records, represented his country internationally, and performed for elite teams across his career. His 97.5-yard goal is still one of the most iconic events in the world of football.
For those inquiring, how tall is Asmir Begović in feet? With a build that has helped him much in controlling his penalty area, the Bosnian goalkeeper stands at a striking 6 feet 6 inches. Begović’s legacy transcends sport to include both vital saves and giving back to the society. Outside the game, he shows great compassion for those in need by helping refugees. Apart from being a fantastic goalie, he is a role model as he shows how tenacity and diligence can overcome obstacles.