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Valdas-Augustinas IvanauskasFootball player
Date of Birth: 31.07.1966
Country:  Lithuania |
Content:
- Valdas Ivanauskas: A Lithuanian Footballing Star
- Success in Germany
- Departure from Lithuania
- Triumph in Vienna
- Otto Rehhagel's Endorsement
- Second Stint at Hamburg
- Injury and Transition
- Decline and Return to Austria
- Career Conclusion
Valdas Ivanauskas: A Lithuanian Footballing Star
Early Career in LithuaniaValdas Ivanauskas began his football journey in his native Lithuania. After impressing with his skills, he caught the attention of German club Hamburger SV's coach, Benno Mölmann, who signed him for 1.7 million German marks.
Success in Germany
Ivanauskas quickly established himself as a valuable player for Hamburg, scoring two goals and providing an assist in his first season. He became one of the team's top performers, accumulating five yellow cards and a red card.
Departure from Lithuania
Following Lithuania's independence from the Soviet Union, Ivanauskas and fellow Lithuanian player Darius Narbekovas joined Lokomotiv Moscow to maintain their international playing status. They helped the team achieve promotion to the top league before moving to Austria in 1990.
Triumph in Vienna
Ivanauskas joined FK Austria Wien and achieved remarkable success. The club won the Austrian Bundesliga three consecutive times from 1991 to 1993, also claiming the Austrian Cup.
Otto Rehhagel's Endorsement
German coach Otto Rehhagel witnessed Ivanauskas's abilities during a match between Austria Wien and Rapid Wien. Impressed, Rehhagel recommended him to his club, Hamburger SV.
Second Stint at Hamburg
Ivanauskas returned to Hamburg in 1993 and continued his impressive form. He scored two goals in the 1994/95 season and received more yellow and red cards. The club achieved a 13th-place finish.
Injury and Transition
An injury in the 1995/96 season limited Ivanauskas's appearances. However, he still managed to score three goals and provide four assists. He helped Hamburg qualify for the UEFA Cup by finishing 5th.
Decline and Return to Austria
Ivanauskas's spell at Hamburg declined in the 1996/97 season. He scored three goals but made fewer appearances and received more yellow cards. He eventually returned to Austria Wien, where he played for two seasons.
Career Conclusion
Ivanauskas's career ended in Germany with Wilhelmshaven. He played 10 games and scored one goal for the club before retiring from professional football.
