Biography
Who is Niklas Moisander?
Early life and career beginnings
Niklas Moisander was born in Turku, Finland, where he first engaged with the sport locally. He began his football path in 2001 alongside his twin brother, Henrik Moisander, when both joined the TPS youth squad in their home city.
By 2002, he started playing in the Veikkausliiga, which is the premier division of Finnish football. He made his debut in a Turku derby against Inter Turku on 15 May 2003, playing the full 90 minutes in a victory. During his time with the club, he appeared in 17 matches.
Professional years in the Netherlands
In 2003, Ajax signed both Niklas and his brother to a two-year contract. While he spent time with the reserve squad Jong Ajax, he did not make a senior appearance for the club during that initial stint. He moved to FC Zwolle in 2006 to gain more playing experience, eventually making 75 appearances for the team while scoring five goals.
His performance at Zwolle led to a transfer to AZ Alkmaar in 2008. He established himself as a key defender for the club under manager Louis van Gaal. During his tenure, he helped AZ win the Eredivisie title and participated in the UEFA Champions League group stage. He eventually became the team captain following the departure of Stijn Schaars.
In 2012, he returned to Ajax on a three-year contract. He served as a first-choice centre-back, scoring goals in both the Eredivisie and the Champions League. He was voted Finnish Footballer of the Year in both 2012 and 2013 during his time there.
International play and later career
Niklas Moisander made his international debut for the Finland men's national football team in May 2008. Over his international career, he earned 62 caps for his country. He served as the team captain and represented Finland during the qualification campaigns for the 2010, 2014, and 2018 FIFA World Cup tournaments. He retired from international competition in 2017.
Following his second spell at Ajax, he spent one season with U.C. Sampdoria in Italy. He later played for Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga for five years and concluded his professional career after four seasons with the Swedish club Malmö FF. He officially retired from professional football at the conclusion of the 2024 season.
Birthday and age
Niklas Moisander was born on September 29, 1985, which makes Niklas 41 years old today. That birthday falls under the Libra sign. Niklas shares the date with 68 other famous people.
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