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Mahmoud GurbanovVeteran of Azerbaijani football
Date of Birth: 10.05.1973
Country:  Azerbaijan |
Content:
- Early Life and Football Development
- Professional Football Career: Domestic Success
- International Exposure
- Further Club Success and Incident with Media
- National Team Representation
- Notable Achievements
Early Life and Football Development
Born and raised in the city of Ganja, Azerbaijan, Ilgar Gurbanov began his football journey at the Ganja Sports School No. 2 under the tutelage of Chingiz Muollim. At the age of 12, he joined the Lokomotiv Ganja youth football club, where he spent the next 12 years under the guidance of Konstantin Obramenko.
Professional Football Career: Domestic Success
Gurbanov's professional career began at the age of 17 with Kяpaz Ganja, a top-flight Azerbaijani club. After a brief stint at Neftchi Baku in 1996-1997, he made a significant impact at Shamkir FC, winning three consecutive league titles from 2000-2002.
International Exposure
In 2003, Gurbanov ventured overseas, joining Fulad Khuzestan in Iran before moving to FC Tavriya Simferopol in Ukraine. However, he returned to Neftchi Baku in 2004 and continued his domestic dominance.
Further Club Success and Incident with Media
After spells with Khazar Lankaran, Inter Baku, and FC Baku, Gurbanov made headlines in 2010 for a controversial incident involving a local newspaper. Upset by a published article, he barged into the newspaper's office, causing property damage and verbally abusing journalists. Gurbanov later expressed regret for his actions.
National Team Representation
Gurbanov also represented Azerbaijan at both the U-21 and senior levels. His international debut came against Georgia in 1992, marking a historic moment in Azerbaijani football as it was the first international match played by the national team after independence.
Notable Achievements
Throughout his illustrious career, Gurbanov has achieved remarkable success, winning 12 Azerbaijani Premier League titles with six different clubs and four Azerbaijani Cup titles. His achievements have etched his name into the annals of Azerbaijani football history.
