Famous Czech Football Players

Petr Čech is a Czech former professional footballer and current ice hockey player. He began his senior career at Chmel Blšany before moving to Sparta Prague. Čech then played for Rennes in France before joining Premier League side Chelsea, where he spent eleven successful years, winning numerous titles. He later transferred to Arsenal before retiring in 2019. Čech is the most capped player in Czech national team history, representing his country in multiple international tournaments. He holds numerous goalkeeping records and awards, solidifying his status as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time.

Pavel Nedvěd is a legendary Czech former professional footballer known for his outstanding career as a midfielder. He achieved success with Italian clubs Lazio and Juventus, winning domestic and European titles. Nedvěd also made significant contributions to the Czech national team, leading them to notable performances in Euro 1996 and Euro 2004. He was praised for his quick, energetic playing style, earning nicknames like "Furia Ceca" and "The Czech cannon." Nedvěd received numerous awards, including the Ballon d'Or in 2003, before retiring in 2009 with an impressive record.

Josef "Pepi" Bican was a prolific Austrian-Czech professional footballer known for his exceptional goal-scoring abilities. He began his career at Rapid Vienna before moving to Admira Vienna and then Slavia Prague, where he scored a remarkable 526 goals in 270 games. Bican also played for other clubs like FC Vitkovice, FC Hradec Králové, and Dynamo Praha, retiring as the top goalscorer in the Czechoslovak First League. He represented both Austria and Czechoslovakia at the international level and later transitioned into coaching, receiving numerous accolades for his achievements in football.

Tomáš Rosický is a retired Czech professional footballer known for his successful career both at the club and international levels. He played for clubs such as Sparta Prague, Borussia Dortmund, and Arsenal, winning league titles and reaching finals. Rosický also served as the captain of the Czech Republic national team, participating in multiple UEFA European Championships and a FIFA World Cup. Despite facing injuries during his time in the Premier League, he remains a respected and influential figure in Czech football.

Milan Baroš is a retired Czech professional footballer who played as a forward. He had a successful career, winning titles with Liverpool, Lyon, Portsmouth, and Galatasaray. Baroš also played for Baník Ostrava, Aston Villa, and represented the Czech Republic in 93 matches, scoring 41 goals. He won the Golden Boot at Euro 2004 and participated in multiple major international tournaments. Known for his goal-scoring prowess, Baroš remains one of the top scorers in Czech Republic's football history.

Jan Koller is a Czech former professional footballer known for his height, strong physique, and heading ability. He began his career at Sparta Prague before moving to Belgium, where he achieved success with Lokeren and Anderlecht. He later joined Borussia Dortmund, winning the Bundesliga title in his first season. Koller also played in France, Germany, and Russia before retiring. He holds the record for the most goals scored for the Czech Republic national team and represented his country in multiple major international tournaments.

Marek Jankulovski is a Czech former professional footballer known for his successful career as a defender. He achieved significant milestones such as winning the UEFA Champions League with AC Milan and being named the 2007 Czech Footballer of the Year. With 77 caps for the Czech Republic, he showcased his talent at various prestigious tournaments including UEFA European Championships, the Summer Olympics, and the FIFA World Cup. Jankulovski was recognized for his versatility, tenacity, hard work, and skill in playing multiple positions on the left side, demonstrating exceptional technical ability and attacking prowess throughout his career.

Patrik Berger is a retired Czech professional footballer known for his versatility in midfield and forward positions. He began his career at Slavia Prague before moving to Borussia Dortmund in Germany and later to Liverpool in England, where he won four trophies. Subsequent spells at Portsmouth, Aston Villa, and Stoke City followed. Internationally, Berger represented the Czech Republic in two major tournaments, making a significant impact at Euro 1996. Throughout his career, he was known for his powerful strikes, surging runs, and left-footed prowess, despite being plagued by injuries. Berger retired in 2010 due to knee issues.

Matěj Vydra is a Czech professional footballer known for his role as a striker for Viktoria Plzeň and the Czech Republic national team. Throughout his career, he has played for various clubs including FC Chotěboř, Vysočina Jihlava, Baník Ostrava, Club Brugge, Udinese, Watford, Derby County, and Burnley. Vydra has also had two loan spells at Watford, showcasing his talent and versatility on the field. His contributions to the teams he has played for have solidified his reputation as a skilled and dedicated player.

Jaroslav Plašil is a Czech former professional footballer known for his midfield prowess. He had a successful career primarily in France, playing for Monaco and Bordeaux, amassing 411 appearances in Ligue 1. He captained Bordeaux to victory in the 2012–13 Coupe de France. Plašil also had stints with Osasuna in Spain and Catania in Italy. Internationally, he earned 103 caps for the Czech Republic, representing them at multiple UEFA European Championships and the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

David Lafata is a retired Czech professional footballer known for his role as a forward. He enjoyed a successful career playing for various clubs, including Sparta Prague and Slavia Prague. Lafata was recognized for his goal-scoring abilities and leadership on the field. Throughout his career, he achieved numerous accolades and titles, contributing significantly to his teams' successes. Lafata's dedication and skill made him a respected figure in Czech football, leaving a lasting impact on the sport in his home country.

Tomáš Necid is a Czech professional footballer known for his striking abilities. He currently plays for Viktoria Žižkov. With a successful career in football, Necid has showcased his skills on the field, earning a reputation as a talented striker. His experience and dedication have contributed to his consistent performance, making him a valuable asset to his team. Necid's passion for the sport and his commitment to excellence have solidified his position as a prominent player in the football world.

Tomáš Kalas is a Czech professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for Schalke 04 and the Czech Republic national team. He began his career at Sigma Olomouc before signing for Chelsea in 2010. Kalas spent several loan spells at clubs such as Vitesse Arnhem, 1. FC Köln, Middlesbrough, Fulham, and Bristol City before transferring to Bristol City permanently in 2019. He has represented the Czech Republic at various youth levels and made his senior international debut in 2012, earning a spot in the squad for UEFA Euro 2020.

Antonín Panenka was a Czech footballer known for his career as an attacking midfielder. He played primarily for Bohemians Prague in Czechoslovakia and also had stints with Austrian clubs, notably Rapid Wien. Panenka achieved fame for his winning penalty kick in the UEFA Euro 1976 final against West Germany, where he cheekily chipped the ball down the middle as the goalkeeper dove. This technique, now synonymous with his name, became known as the "Panenka." He was also named Czechoslovak Footballer of the Year in 1980.

Karel Poborský is a Czech former professional footballer known for his technical ability and pace as a winger. He started and ended his club career at Dynamo České Budějovice, with his kit number retired in his honor. Poborský achieved success by winning Czech First League titles with Slavia and Sparta Prague, a Premier League title with Manchester United, and playing for clubs like Benfica and Lazio. He made 118 appearances for the Czech national team, participating in World Cups and European Championships, earning recognition in UEFA Euro 1996's Team of the Tournament.

Vladimír Darida is a Czech professional footballer known for his role as a central midfielder for Aris Thessaloniki in the Super League Greece. He has been a key player for the Czech Republic national team from 2012 to 2021, showcasing his skills and leadership on the field. Darida's versatility, technical ability, and vision make him a valuable asset to any team. With his consistent performances and dedication to the sport, he has earned a reputation as a reliable and talented midfielder in both club and international football.

Václav Kadlec had a successful professional football career as a forward, primarily playing for clubs in the Czech Republic and Germany. Known for his speed, technical skills, and goal-scoring ability, he made significant contributions to his teams on the field. Kadlec represented the Czech national team at various levels, showcasing his talent on the international stage as well. Throughout his career, he gained recognition for his versatility, work ethic, and dedication to the sport, earning the respect of fans and fellow players alike.

Daniel Pudil is a retired Czech professional footballer known for his versatility as a left back or left winger. He has represented the Czech Republic national team and has played for various clubs throughout his career. Pudil's experience and skill on the field have made him a valuable asset to his teams. As of his recent career, he was playing for Hallam in the Northern Counties East League Premier Division, showcasing his talent and contributing to the success of the club.

David Rozehnal is a retired Czech footballer known for his defensive skills. He had a successful career playing for various European clubs, accumulating over 400 appearances during his nearly two-decade-long tenure. Rozehnal's professional journey came to an end in April 2018 when he retired from the game. Throughout his career, he showcased his talent and dedication on the field, leaving a lasting impression on fans and fellow players alike with his solid performances as a defender.

Pavel Srníček was a Czech football coach and former professional player known for his role as a goalkeeper. He played in the Premier League for clubs like Newcastle United, Sheffield Wednesday, Portsmouth, and West Ham United. Additionally, he played in Serie A for Brescia, Serie B with Cosenza, in Portugal for Beira-Mar, and in his native country for Baník Ostrava. After his playing career, Srníček worked as a goalkeeping coach for his private school and AC Sparta Prague. Internationally, he earned 49 caps for the Czech Republic and was part of their successful squads at UEFA Euro 1996, the 1997 FIFA Confederations Cup, and UEFA Euro 2000.

František Plánička was a Czech football goalkeeper who spent his entire career with Slavia Prague, achieving great success by winning the Czech league eight times and the Mitropa Cup once. He represented the Czechoslovakia national team and was instrumental in their successes, including finishing as runners-up in the Central European International Cup in 1931-32 and the World Cup in 1934 and 1938. Plánička was known for his courage, outstanding reflexes, and shot-stopping abilities, earning a reputation as one of the greatest goalkeepers of his generation and of all time.

Tomáš Ujfaluši is a former Czech professional footballer who played primarily as a central defender or right back. Throughout his career, he competed in top leagues in Germany, Italy, Spain, and Turkey, achieving success with clubs such as Hamburger SV, Atlético Madrid, and Galatasaray. Ujfaluši won six major titles during his time in these countries. He began his career with Sigma Olomouc in 1996 and went on to represent the Czech Republic 78 times, participating in the 2006 World Cup and two European Championships.

Josef Masopust was a renowned Czech football player and coach, known for his exceptional skills as a midfielder. He played a crucial role in Czechoslovakia's success, including reaching the 1962 FIFA World Cup Final. With 63 caps and ten goals for his national team, Masopust was recognized as the European Footballer of the Year in 1962. His outstanding contributions led to him being named his country's Golden Player by the Football Association of the Czech Republic and included in Pelé's list of the top 125 greatest living footballers. Masopust is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in the history of the sport.

Václav Pilař is a Czech professional footballer known for his role as a winger for Hradec Králové. He has also made significant contributions to the Czech Republic national team during his international career from 2011 to 2015. Pilař's skills on the field have earned him recognition for his speed, agility, and technical abilities, making him a valuable asset to both his club and country. Throughout his career, he has showcased a strong work ethic and dedication to the sport, earning him a reputation as a reliable and talented player.

Tomáš Sivok is a retired Czech professional footballer known for his versatility in playing as a centre-back or midfielder. Throughout his career, he showcased his skills and leadership on the field, making a total of 64 appearances for the Czech national team and scoring 5 goals. Sivok's presence was valuable to the teams he played for, demonstrating a strong defensive game and contributing offensively when needed. His dedication and commitment to the sport earned him a respected reputation among fans and peers alike.

Zdeněk Grygera is a retired Czech professional footballer known for his career as a defender. Throughout his time in the sport, Grygera showcased exceptional skills and versatility on the field. He played for various clubs at both national and international levels, earning a reputation for his strong defensive capabilities and tactical awareness. Grygera's dedication and passion for the game were evident in his consistent performances, making him a respected figure in the football community before retiring from professional play.

Václav Svěrkoš is a Czech former professional footballer known for his role as a striker. He gained recognition for being the opening scorer in the Euro 2008 tournament. Throughout his career, Svěrkoš showcased his talent and skill on the field, earning admiration from fans and fellow players alike. His contributions to the sport left a lasting impact, with his performance in the Euro 2008 tournament being a standout moment in his professional life.

Ivan Hašek is a Czech professional football coach and former player. He had a successful playing career as a central midfielder, spending a significant portion of it with Sparta Prague. Hašek also represented Czechoslovakia at the 1990 World Cup and later served as the president of the Football Association of the Czech Republic. Transitioning into coaching, he worked with clubs in the Middle East before taking on roles with the Lebanese and Czech national teams.

Libor Sionko had a successful professional football career, starting in his home town of Ostrava before playing for clubs in the Czech Republic such as Ostrava and Sparta Prague. He then moved abroad to Austria and Scotland, playing for Grazer AK, Austria Wien, and Rangers. Sionko also had a spell in Denmark with F.C. Copenhagen before returning to Sparta Prague to finish his career. Internationally, he represented the Czech Republic in three major tournaments, including the 2006 World Cup and Euro 2008, scoring 8 goals in 41 games.

Petr Jiráček is a Czech footballer known for his versatility as a midfielder, capable of playing both box-to-box and attacking roles. Throughout his professional career, he has showcased his skills and tactical understanding on the field. Jiráček has represented various clubs, displaying his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. He is recognized for his work rate, passing accuracy, and goal-scoring capabilities. Jiráček's experience and adaptability have made him a valuable asset to his teams, earning him a reputation as a reliable and hardworking player.

David Jarolím is a Czech football manager and former player known for his skills as a central midfielder. He has most recently managed Ústí nad Labem. Jarolím is recognized for his remarkable stamina, precise passing abilities, and technical proficiency on the field. With a successful career in professional football, he has garnered admiration for his strategic gameplay and leadership qualities, making a significant impact both as a player and a manager in the world of Czech football.

Michal Kadlec is a retired Czech professional footballer known for his career as a defender with clubs such as 1. FC Slovácko, Sparta Prague, Bayer Leverkusen, and Fenerbahçe. Making his senior debut in 2007, Kadlec showcased his defensive skills and leadership on the field. He also represented the Czech Republic in international competitions, scoring 8 goals in 67 appearances over the span of three UEFA European Championships from 2008 to 2016. Kadlec's contributions to both club and country solidify his legacy in the world of football.

Tomáš Hübschman is a retired Czech professional footballer known for his versatile skills and tactical awareness on the field. He had a successful career playing primarily as a defensive midfielder or center-back for both club and country. Hübschman started his professional career with Baník Ostrava before moving to Shakhtar Donetsk, where he achieved great success, winning multiple domestic and international titles. Throughout his career, he was praised for his strong defensive abilities, leadership qualities, and commitment to the team.

Petra Divišová is a Czech football striker currently playing for Slavia Prague in the Czech First Division. She started her career at TJ Blatná before moving to 1. FC Gerain in Germany. She made her national team debut in 2007 and signed with Slavia Prague the same year. Divišová has played in the UEFA Champions League, reaching the quarterfinals. While the Czech league is not professional, she works in a rehabilitation centre alongside her football career.

Oldřich Machala is a Czech football coach and former player known for his successful career at SK Sigma Olomouc, where he holds the record for the most league caps in the club's history. He is considered a legendary figure at the club and was honored with the Personality of the League award in 2000. Machala also earned a cap for the Czech Republic national team. Transitioning to coaching, he led 1. HFK Olomouc to a league title and promotion to the Czech 2. Liga in his first season as manager.