Franz Burgmeier Liechtenstein footballer, midfielder Date of Birth: 07.04.1982 Country: Liechtenstein

1. Franz Burgmeier: A Liechtenstein Footballing Legend
2. Rise to Prominence with FC Vaduz
3. Stints in Switzerland
4. International Accolades
5. Return to Vaduz and a Strong Finish
6. Personal Life

Franz Burgmeier: A Liechtenstein Footballing Legend

Born on October 12, 1984, in the serene town of Triesen, Liechtenstein, Franz Burgmeier is widely recognized as one of his country's greatest footballers. The son of Heinz and Elsbeth Burgmeier, Franz's initial passion for football ignited in his hometown club, FC Triesen. Notably, football was not his sole sporting pursuit during his younger days, as he also excelled in skiing.

Rise to Prominence with FC Vaduz

Burgmeier's professional football career commenced with FC Vaduz, where he spent five seasons from 2000 to 2005. It was with Vaduz that he made his senior debut, scoring his first goal against Swiss club Thun 1898 on July 31, 2001. His European debut came in the UEFA Cup on August 15, 2002, when he netted against Scottish side Livingston.

Burgmeier's performances for Vaduz earned him international recognition. He made his debut for the Liechtenstein national team on September 5, 2001, in a World Cup qualifying match against Spain. Burgmeier's resolute display, despite Liechtenstein's defeat, marked the beginning of his illustrious international career.

Stints in Switzerland

Determined to test his abilities beyond Liechtenstein's borders, Burgmeier moved to Swiss club FC Aarau in 2006. He spent a successful season there, scoring one goal and helping Aarau achieve a seventh-place finish in the Super League. Burgmeier's form for Aarau brought him further recognition, as he was named Liechtenstein's Footballer of the Year in 2006.

Burgmeier's wanderlust continued in 2007 when he joined FC Basel, one of Switzerland's leading clubs. He won the Swiss Cup with Basel in 2007 but was loaned out to FC Thun the following season. At Thun, he played 17 matches and reached the semi-finals of the Swiss Cup.

International Accolades

Burgmeier's unwavering commitment to the Liechtenstein national team has garnered him immense respect. His moment of glory came on October 9, 2004, when Liechtenstein held Portugal to a 2-2 draw in a World Cup qualifier. Burgmeier scored the opening goal for Liechtenstein, marking a historic moment for the tiny nation.

Return to Vaduz and a Strong Finish

In 2009, Burgmeier returned to FC Vaduz, where he would spend the twilight of his career. He helped Vaduz win the Liechtenstein Cup for a record 16th time in 2009 and 2011. Burgmeier played 35 matches for Darlington in England between 2008 and 2009, scoring twice.

Personal Life

Off the field, Franz Burgmeier is known for his humility and dedication to his family. He is unmarried and is in a relationship with Monika. His older brother, Patrick Burgmeier, is also a footballer who plays for FC Eschen/Mauren.