Biography
Who is Heiko Westermann?
Early football career in Germany
Heiko Westermann was born in Alzenau, Germany. He began his professional path in the 2. Bundesliga with SpVgg Greuther Fürth. He joined their senior squad in July 2002 but waited until January 2003 to make his first appearance in a match against MSV Duisburg. During three seasons with the club, he played eighty-three league games and scored two goals.
Following his time with Greuther Fürth, Heiko moved to Arminia Bielefeld. He became a consistent presence on the field, playing every single league and cup match during his first season. He missed only one game in the following campaign, establishing himself as a reliable defender in the top tier of German football.
Success with Schalke and Hamburg
In 2007, Heiko Westermann joined Schalke 04 for a transfer fee of 2.8 million euros. He scored a goal during his first appearance for the club in a game against 1. FC Nürnberg. He became the only outfield player for Schalke to play every minute of their Champions League matches that season. Under coach Fred Rutten, he often played in midfield and achieved his highest scoring season, including two goals in a cup win over Hannover 96.
He moved to Hamburger SV in July 2010 for a fee of approximately 7.5 million euros. He was immediately named the team captain by coach Armin Veh. He held this leadership role until April 2013, when Rafael van der Vaart took over the captaincy to reduce the pressure on Heiko. He remained with Hamburg until June 2015 when his contract ended.
International play and career end
Heiko earned twenty-seven caps for the Germany national team. His first call-up came from Joachim Löw for a 2008 match against Austria in Vienna. He was part of the squad that finished as runners-up at Euro 2008. He scored his first goal for his country in a 7-2 victory against the United Arab Emirates. Although he was in the preliminary squad for the 2010 World Cup, an injury prevented him from participating.
Later in his career, Heiko Westermann played for Real Betis in Spain, Ajax in the Netherlands, and Austria Wien. While at Ajax, he began working as a youth coach. He officially retired from active play in April 2018 while in Austria. He transitioned into coaching and eventually became an assistant coach for Barcelona in La Liga.
Heiko's height and family life
Heiko stands 190 centimeters tall, which helped him as a powerful defender and a threat during set pieces. He married his wife, Irina, in June 2007. The couple has two daughters named Lana and Nikita. Lana was born in May 2008, and Nikita followed in October 2010.
Throughout his eighteen-year professional career, Heiko Westermann was known for his versatility and durability. He played across the defensive line and in midfield for several major European clubs. His transition from a Bundesliga player to an international coach reflects his long-term dedication to the sport of association football.
Birthday and age
Heiko Westermann was born on August 14, 1983, which makes Heiko 43 years old today. That birthday falls under the Leo sign. Heiko shares the date with 29 other famous people.
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