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Nikola ZigicSerbian footballer, striker.
Date of Birth: 25.09.1980
Country:  Serbia |
Content:
- Nicola Žigić: Serbian Football Legend
- Success in Spain
- Move to Valencia
- International Career
- Later Career and Retirement
Nicola Žigić: Serbian Football Legend
Early Career and Rise to ProminenceNicola Žigić, a Serbian striker, began his career in lower division clubs before joining Red Star Belgrade in 2003. Over three seasons, he scored an impressive 71 goals in 110 appearances, earning recognition as Serbia's Player of the Year in 2003, 2005, and 2006.
Success in Spain
In August 2006, Žigić signed with Racing Santander, where he showcased his scoring prowess with 13 goals in his debut season. This caught the attention of several European giants, including Tottenham, Fenerbahçe, Barcelona, and Juventus.
Move to Valencia
Ultimately, it was Valencia who secured Žigić's services in August 2007 for a fee of £20 million. He made an immediate impact, scoring a brace in Valencia's Copa del Rey victory over Real Unión. Despite a return to Racing Santander on loan in 2008/09, Žigić remained a key player for Valencia.
International Career
Žigić debuted for the Serbian national team in 2004, becoming a regular member in 2005. He made significant contributions to Serbia's qualifying campaigns for the World Cup and European Championship, scoring seven goals in the latter's qualifiers.
Later Career and Retirement
In 2010, Žigić left Valencia for Birmingham City, where he spent two seasons before retiring in 2012. He continued to score important goals, including a memorable hat-trick against Athletic Bilbao in 2007, establishing his legacy as a prolific and effective striker.
