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Darko BodulCroatian footballer, striker for Dutch club Ajax
Date of Birth: 11.01.1989
Country:  Netherlands |
Content:
- Early Life and Football Beginnings
- Footballing Roots in Vienna
- Move to the Netherlands
- Transfer to Ajax
- Professional Debut and Loan Spells
- Loans to Sparta Rotterdam and Haarlem
- Family Connections
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Childhood and MigrationDarco Bodul, a Croatian footballer, was born on January 11, 1989, in Sarajevo. During the Bosnian Civil War in the early 1990s, Darco and his family fled to Vienna, Austria.
Footballing Roots in Vienna
In Vienna, Darco embarked on his football journey with local club Fortuna before joining Austria's oldest club, First Vienna FC. His impressive performances caught the attention of European giants such as Bayern Munich, Blackburn Rovers, and Heerenveen.
Move to the Netherlands
Joining HeerenveenAt the age of 16, Darco opted to join Dutch club Heerenveen. He quickly integrated into Dutch culture and became a key player for Heerenveen's youth team.
Transfer to Ajax
Discovery by AjaxSeveral Dutch clubs expressed interest in Darco, but it was Ajax Amsterdam who secured his services for free due to an administrative oversight at Heerenveen. On July 17, 2008, he signed a one-year contract with Ajax, with an option to extend until 2011.
Professional Debut and Loan Spells
Eredivisie DebutDarco made his Eredivisie debut on February 8, 2009, against Vitesse, coming on as a substitute in the second half.
Loans to Sparta Rotterdam and Haarlem
In July 2009, Ajax manager Martin Jol announced that Darco would be loaned out. He joined Sparta Rotterdam on a season-long loan in August 2009. However, he rejected a potential move to first-tier club Haarlem, preferring to remain in the Eredivisie.
Family Connections
Brother's Footballing CareerDarco's older brother, Dragan Bodul, also pursued a football career. Dragan played for several Austrian clubs before ending his career at the age of 34 and becoming Darco's agent.
