Biography
Who is Niko Kranjčar?
Early life and education
Niko Kranjčar grew up in Austria while his father played football there. Because of this childhood, he holds an Austrian passport. He attended the American International School Vienna during his youth.
His father, Zlatko Kranjčar, was a forward for Dinamo Zagreb and Rapid Vienna. Zlatko also gave Niko his international debut for Croatia in August 2004.
Club career highlights
Niko began his professional path with GNK Dinamo Zagreb. At age 16, he became one of the youngest league scorers in the Prva HNL. He eventually served as the youngest captain for the squad at age 17. During his time there, he helped the team win a Croatian cup and a league title in 2003.
In January 2005, he moved to Hajduk Split. This transfer caused significant tension with Dinamo Zagreb management. During his season with Hajduk, he scored 10 goals and helped the club secure the Prva HNL trophy.
Niko moved to England in August 2006 to join Portsmouth. He played a key role in their FA Cup victory. In September 2009, he transferred to Tottenham Hotspur for approximately £2.5 million. He played under manager Harry Redknapp, who had previously coached him at both Portsmouth and Tottenham.
Later in his career, he signed with Dynamo Kyiv in June 2012. While with the Ukrainian club, he went on a two-year loan to Queens Park Rangers. He spent time playing in the United States for the New York Cosmos and in Scotland for Rangers before he retired in 2018.
Currently, he works as an assistant to Josip Šimunić for the Croatia national under-19 team as of May 2021.
International career
Niko Kranjčar represented the Croatia national team throughout his career. He earned a total of 81 caps and scored 16 goals for his country. He participated in major tournaments including the 2006 FIFA World Cup, UEFA Euro 2008, and UEFA Euro 2012.
His final appearance for the national side took place on 15 October 2013. A leg injury prevented him from competing in the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Birthday and age
Niko Kranjčar was born on August 13, 1984, which makes Niko 42 years old today. That birthday falls under the Leo sign. Niko shares the date with 21 other famous people.
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