Ilgar Gurbanov Azerbaijani footballer, midfielder and forward. Date of Birth: 25.04.1986 Country: Azerbaijan

1. Early Life and Career
2. Time at Fenerbahçe
3. Return to Azerbaijan
4. Domestic and Turkish Career
5. Return to Azerbaijan and Success
6. International Career
7. Achievements

Early Life and Career

Vagif Gurbanov, an Azerbaijani footballer, was born into a family of football enthusiasts. His cousin, Vagif Javadhov, and his father, Bahram Gurbanov, were both accomplished players. Gurbanov began his footballing journey in his home country of Azerbaijan.

Time at Fenerbahçe

In 2000, Gurbanov's talent caught the attention of Turkish giants Fenerbahçe. He joined their youth team and quickly became a standout performer. As the captain of the team, he led them to several successes.

Return to Azerbaijan

By 2004, Gurbanov felt ready for the first team at Fenerbahçe. However, a strained relationship with then-manager Christoph Daum hindered his progress, and he returned to Azerbaijan.

Domestic and Turkish Career

From 2004 to 2007, Gurbanov played for Khazar Lankaran in Azerbaijan, scoring 6 goals in 56 appearances. In 2007, he rejoined Fenerbahçe's senior team but failed to secure a regular place. He then moved to Sivasspor in the Turkish Süper Lig but remained overshadowed by star striker Mehmet Ali Kurtulus. Gurbanov subsequently spent time at Boluspor in the Turkish First Division.

Return to Azerbaijan and Success

In 2009, Gurbanov returned to Azerbaijan to play for Olimpik-Shukhovlan. The following season, he briefly joined Turkish First Division club Mersin Idman Yurdu before financial troubles forced him to leave.

In 2011, Gurbanov signed a contract with Qarabağ, where he remained for several years. With Qarabağ, he won the Azerbaijan Premier League titles in the 2013/14 and 2014/15 seasons, becoming a key figure in the club's success.

International Career

From 2004 to 2008, Gurbanov represented the Azerbaijan national football team, making 29 appearances and scoring one goal.

Achievements

• Azerbaijan Premier League Champion: 2006/07 (Khazar Lankaran), 2013/14, 2014/15 (Qarabağ)
• Azerbaijan Premier League Silver Medalist: 2004/05 (Khazar Lankaran)