{"id":320591,"first_name":"Simon Thorup","last_name":"Kjær","short_name":"S. Kjær","common_name":"Simon Kjær","place_of_birth":"Horsens","gender":"male","height":189,"weight":82,"status":"active","createdAt":"2024-12-03T12:16:06.639Z","updatedAt":"2025-06-10T14:59:31.992Z","locale":"en","age":36,"stb_id":"simon-kjaer","description":null,"tier":null,"common_name_en":"Simon Kjær","top_position":null,"introduction":"Simon Thorup Kjær is a Danish former professional footballer who made his mark primarily as a centre-back. Notably recognized for his defensive skills, he had a distinguished career both at the club and international level. Kjær played a remarkable 132 matches for the national team and participated in major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championships. His career spanned numerous top clubs across Europe, including stints in Serie A, the Bundesliga, and Ligue 1, showcasing his versatility and talent in the sport.","early_life_and_career":"\n## Early Years\nSimon Thorup Kjær was born on 26 March 1989 in Horsens, Denmark. His early passion for football was evident as he began playing at the tender age of four. This early interest led him to join Lund IF, a local club near his birthplace. Football was a significant part of his family life, with his father, Jørn Kjær, working as the equipment manager at FC Midtjylland, which further fueled his passion for the sport. Despite a supportive father, his mother, a teacher, had reservations about his football pursuits. Education-wise, Kjær managed to complete his school diploma despite his growing focus on football.\n\n## Youth Career\nKjær's youth career took flight when he joined the Danish Superliga club FC Midtjylland's youth team in 2004. As one of the pioneering graduates of FCM's renowned football academy, he advanced alongside other notable players like Jesper Weinkouff and Christian Sivebæk. Initially playing as a midfielder, a tactical shift by his coach saw him transition into his preferred defensive role. Kjær's talent shone through when he was named the best player in a prestigious French youth tournament in April 2006, setting the stage for his club to reject offers from significant clubs, signaling his high potential.","professional_career_and_highlights":"\n## Club Career\n### Midtjylland\nKjær debuted for Midtjylland's senior team in June 2006 during the Viasat Cup matches, displaying impressive performances. He officially signed his first professional contract with the club in August 2006. After a successful trial with Real Madrid was thwarted by Midtjylland's refusal to sanction a move, he cemented his commitment with a five-year contract in September 2007. Kjær's league debut was on 30 September 2007, contributing to a cleaner victory against AGF. His form attracted attention from top clubs like Chelsea and Middlesbrough.\n\n### Palermo\nIn February 2008, Kjær secured a five-year contract with Palermo for a €4 million transfer fee, starting from summer 2008. He faced initial challenges but quickly adapted, making his Serie A debut on 26 October 2008. His first goal soon followed, making him a mainstay in the starting 11. He was acknowledged for his robust performances, ranking as one of the top young players in Serie A. During the 2008–09 season, Kjær finished as Palermo's top-scoring defender, establishing himself further in the 2009–10 season alongside Cesare Bovo.\n\n### VfL Wolfsburg\nOn 30 June 2010, Wolfsburg confirmed interest in Kjær, signing him on 8 July 2010 for a reported £10 million. Kjær made his official debut in August 2010, but following mixed team performance and managerial changes, his career saw challenges, though he remained a fixture in the squad.\n\n### Lille LOSC\nIn July 2013, Kjær signed with Lille, quickly establishing a solid defensive presence. His first season saw Lille attain the best defense record among European leagues. Kjær's consistent performance led him to feature prominently in the 'Ligue 1 Team of the Season'.\n\n### Fenerbahçe\nIn 2015, Kjær moved to Fenerbahçe with a €7.65 million transfer. Despite early challenges, he proved essential over his tenure, leading the club to several clean sheets and consistently performing at a high level.\n\n### Sevilla\nJoining Sevilla in the summer of 2017 for €12.5 million, Kjær became a central team figure, balancing domestic league responsibilities and UEFA competitions. Highlighting his career at Sevilla, he was pivotal in matches such as the Champions League victory over Manchester United in 2018.\n\n### AC Milan\nKjær joined AC Milan on a loan in January 2020, before securing a permanent move in July 2020. In Italy, he gained recognition for his leadership, culminating in a Serie A win with Milan in 2021-22, marking the first major trophy of his career.\n\n## National Team Career\n### Youth National Teams\nSimon Kjær began his international journey with Denmark's U18 in September 2006. His performances earned him the Danish under-19 talent of the year award in 2007 as he excelled across ten matches for the U19s. His momentum carried into the U21 side in May 2008, where he earned two caps.\n\n### Senior National Team\nKjær made his senior debut in February 2009 and quickly solidified his role as a key defender. Participating in the 2010, 2018, and 2022 FIFA World Cups, as well as UEFA Euro Championships, Kjær reached 132 caps. Highlights include leading Denmark as captain in critical fixtures, navigating the national team through successful campaigns, and making significant contributions both defensively and by influencing pivotal moments on the pitch.","playing_style_and_skills":"\n## Player Characteristics\nSimon Kjær developed a reputation for his robust defensive play, primarily positioned as a centre-back. Known for his physical strength and tactical awareness, Kjær excelled in aerial duels and defensive interceptions. His technical ability allowed him to execute precise long-range passing, showcased prominently during the Denmark national team's matches. His leadership skills were evident as he frequently captained both club and country, bringing organization and composure to the defense.\n\n## Performance Statistics\nKjær's career features impressive statistics with numerous club appearances across top European leagues, scoring goals primarily from defensive positions. Internationally, he scored five crucial goals in his 132 appearances, demonstrating his ability to impact games.\n\n## Records\nThroughout his career, Kjær achieved significant milestones, including over 100 international caps, earning places in various 'Team of the Season' lists, and leading Denmark during pivotal international matches. His contributions in playing a key role in Lille's defensive success in the 2013-14 season and his Serie A triumph with Milan highlight his impactful career.","notable_achievements":"\n## Achievements\n### Team Achievements\n- Serie A Champion with AC Milan: 2021–22\n\n### Individual Achievements\n- Danish Talent of the Year: 2009\n- Danish Player of the Year: 2009, 2021\n- The Guardian Footballer of the Year: 2021\n\n## Awards and Recognition\nKjær's career has been marked by numerous individual accolades. Most notably, his bravery and leadership during the UEFA Euro 2020 match featuring Christian Eriksen's collapse earned him the UEFA President's Award. His continuous selection for national duties underscores his respected standing in football.","impact_on_sport":"\n## Career Overview\nSimon Kjær's illustrious football career reflects both his proficiency on the field and his leadership qualities. Renowned for his defensive prowess, he proved instrumental in all his professional engagements across Europe, from Denmark to Italy. Internationally, his consistent performances solidified his legacy as one of Denmark's finest central defenders.\n\n## Off the Field\nOff the field, Kjær maintained a positive public image, often recognized for his professionalism and leadership, especially evident during critical situations like the Euro 2020. His multilingual capabilities added to his adaptability and communicative prowess.\n\n## Personal Life\nFamily is central to Kjær's life, having grown alongside his long-term partner Elina Gollert, with whom he shares two children. Despite a seemingly busy football career, he prioritized family, balancing professional commitments with personal life adeptly. Kjær maintained personal interests like idolizing players such as John Terry and Fabio Cannavaro, and his goal-oriented superstitions lent character to his off-field persona.","stb_internal_id":"01938c72-fbc5-7a56-a54d-52153b1c51f0","overrides":null,"type_code":"defender","position_type_code":"defender","detailed_position_type_code":"centre-back","roles":"player","has_biography":true,"has_membership_relations":true,"has_matches":null,"has_article_relations":false,"has_social_media_relations":false,"introduction_html":"

Simon Thorup Kjær is a Danish former professional footballer who made his mark primarily as a centre-back. Notably recognized for his defensive skills, he had a distinguished career both at the club and international level. Kjær played a remarkable 132 matches for the national team and participated in major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championships. His career spanned numerous top clubs across Europe, including stints in Serie A, the Bundesliga, and Ligue 1, showcasing his versatility and talent in the sport.

\n","early_life_and_career_html":"

Early Years

Simon Thorup Kjær was born on 26 March 1989 in Horsens, Denmark. His early passion for football was evident as he began playing at the tender age of four. This early interest led him to join Lund IF, a local club near his birthplace. Football was a significant part of his family life, with his father, Jørn Kjær, working as the equipment manager at FC Midtjylland, which further fueled his passion for the sport. Despite a supportive father, his mother, a teacher, had reservations about his football pursuits. Education-wise, Kjær managed to complete his school diploma despite his growing focus on football.

Youth Career

Kjær's youth career took flight when he joined the Danish Superliga club FC Midtjylland's youth team in 2004. As one of the pioneering graduates of FCM's renowned football academy, he advanced alongside other notable players like Jesper Weinkouff and Christian Sivebæk. Initially playing as a midfielder, a tactical shift by his coach saw him transition into his preferred defensive role. Kjær's talent shone through when he was named the best player in a prestigious French youth tournament in April 2006, setting the stage for his club to reject offers from significant clubs, signaling his high potential.

\n","professional_career_and_highlights_html":"

Club Career

Midtjylland

Kjær debuted for Midtjylland's senior team in June 2006 during the Viasat Cup matches, displaying impressive performances. He officially signed his first professional contract with the club in August 2006. After a successful trial with Real Madrid was thwarted by Midtjylland's refusal to sanction a move, he cemented his commitment with a five-year contract in September 2007. Kjær's league debut was on 30 September 2007, contributing to a cleaner victory against AGF. His form attracted attention from top clubs like Chelsea and Middlesbrough.

Palermo

In February 2008, Kjær secured a five-year contract with Palermo for a €4 million transfer fee, starting from summer 2008. He faced initial challenges but quickly adapted, making his Serie A debut on 26 October 2008. His first goal soon followed, making him a mainstay in the starting 11. He was acknowledged for his robust performances, ranking as one of the top young players in Serie A. During the 2008–09 season, Kjær finished as Palermo's top-scoring defender, establishing himself further in the 2009–10 season alongside Cesare Bovo.

VfL Wolfsburg

On 30 June 2010, Wolfsburg confirmed interest in Kjær, signing him on 8 July 2010 for a reported £10 million. Kjær made his official debut in August 2010, but following mixed team performance and managerial changes, his career saw challenges, though he remained a fixture in the squad.

Lille LOSC

In July 2013, Kjær signed with Lille, quickly establishing a solid defensive presence. His first season saw Lille attain the best defense record among European leagues. Kjær's consistent performance led him to feature prominently in the 'Ligue 1 Team of the Season'.

Fenerbahçe

In 2015, Kjær moved to Fenerbahçe with a €7.65 million transfer. Despite early challenges, he proved essential over his tenure, leading the club to several clean sheets and consistently performing at a high level.

Sevilla

Joining Sevilla in the summer of 2017 for €12.5 million, Kjær became a central team figure, balancing domestic league responsibilities and UEFA competitions. Highlighting his career at Sevilla, he was pivotal in matches such as the Champions League victory over Manchester United in 2018.

AC Milan

Kjær joined AC Milan on a loan in January 2020, before securing a permanent move in July 2020. In Italy, he gained recognition for his leadership, culminating in a Serie A win with Milan in 2021-22, marking the first major trophy of his career.

National Team Career

Youth National Teams

Simon Kjær began his international journey with Denmark's U18 in September 2006. His performances earned him the Danish under-19 talent of the year award in 2007 as he excelled across ten matches for the U19s. His momentum carried into the U21 side in May 2008, where he earned two caps.

Senior National Team

Kjær made his senior debut in February 2009 and quickly solidified his role as a key defender. Participating in the 2010, 2018, and 2022 FIFA World Cups, as well as UEFA Euro Championships, Kjær reached 132 caps. Highlights include leading Denmark as captain in critical fixtures, navigating the national team through successful campaigns, and making significant contributions both defensively and by influencing pivotal moments on the pitch.

\n","playing_style_and_skills_html":"

Player Characteristics

Simon Kjær developed a reputation for his robust defensive play, primarily positioned as a centre-back. Known for his physical strength and tactical awareness, Kjær excelled in aerial duels and defensive interceptions. His technical ability allowed him to execute precise long-range passing, showcased prominently during the Denmark national team's matches. His leadership skills were evident as he frequently captained both club and country, bringing organization and composure to the defense.

Performance Statistics

Kjær's career features impressive statistics with numerous club appearances across top European leagues, scoring goals primarily from defensive positions. Internationally, he scored five crucial goals in his 132 appearances, demonstrating his ability to impact games.

Records

Throughout his career, Kjær achieved significant milestones, including over 100 international caps, earning places in various 'Team of the Season' lists, and leading Denmark during pivotal international matches. His contributions in playing a key role in Lille's defensive success in the 2013-14 season and his Serie A triumph with Milan highlight his impactful career.

\n","notable_achievements_html":"

Achievements

Team Achievements

Serie A Champion with AC Milan: 2021–22

Individual Achievements

Danish Talent of the Year: 2009
Danish Player of the Year: 2009, 2021
The Guardian Footballer of the Year: 2021

Awards and Recognition

Kjær's career has been marked by numerous individual accolades. Most notably, his bravery and leadership during the UEFA Euro 2020 match featuring Christian Eriksen's collapse earned him the UEFA President's Award. His continuous selection for national duties underscores his respected standing in football.

\n","impact_on_sport_html":"

Career Overview

Simon Kjær's illustrious football career reflects both his proficiency on the field and his leadership qualities. Renowned for his defensive prowess, he proved instrumental in all his professional engagements across Europe, from Denmark to Italy. Internationally, his consistent performances solidified his legacy as one of Denmark's finest central defenders.

Off the Field

Off the field, Kjær maintained a positive public image, often recognized for his professionalism and leadership, especially evident during critical situations like the Euro 2020. His multilingual capabilities added to his adaptability and communicative prowess.

Personal Life

Family is central to Kjær's life, having grown alongside his long-term partner Elina Gollert, with whom he shares two children. Despite a seemingly busy football career, he prioritized family, balancing professional commitments with personal life adeptly. Kjær maintained personal interests like idolizing players such as John Terry and Fabio Cannavaro, and his goal-oriented superstitions lent character to his off-field persona.

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Simon Kjær: Career