Jürgen Sparwasser Autograph

Profession:
(1948-) Retired German football player and later briefly a football manager.

Year of Birth: 1948

Jürgen Sparwasser is a former East German footballer who was born on June 4, 1948, in Halberstadt, Germany. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers to represent the German Democratic Republic (GDR) during the 1970s.

Sparwasser began his football career at BSG Lokomotive Halberstadt, a local club in his hometown. His exceptional talent soon caught the attention of talent scouts, leading to his transfer to FC Magdeburg in 1966. It was at Magdeburg where Sparwasser would truly make a name for himself.

During his time at FC Magdeburg, Sparwasser won numerous titles and accolades. He was a key player in the club's triumph in the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1974, scoring the winning goal in the final against AC Milan. This historic victory put East German football on the map and made Sparwasser a national hero.

Sparwasser also had a successful international career, representing the GDR national team from 1969 to 1978. He scored a total of 19 goals in 43 appearances, including the winning goal against West Germany in the 1974 FIFA World Cup. This goal, often referred to as the "Sparwasser goal," remains one of the most iconic moments in East German football history.

Following his retirement from professional football in 1985, Sparwasser stayed involved in the sport as a coach and scout. He worked with several clubs in Germany, including FC Magdeburg and Energie Cottbus.

Today, Jürgen Sparwasser is celebrated as a true legend of East German football. His achievements on the pitch and his contribution to the sport have left a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations of footballers in Germany and beyond.