Axel Witsel, a Belgian professional footballer, currently plays as a defensive midfielder or centre-back for La Liga club Atlético Madrid.
Witsel has also played in more offensive positions such as central midfielder or attacking midfielder, and has featured for clubs in Russia and Germany.
He signed a one-year contract with Atlético Madrid on 6 July 2022, which will expire on 30 June 2024.
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- Full name: Axel Laurent Angel Lambert Witsel
- Date of birth: January 12, 1989
- Age: 35 years old
- Gender: Male
- Place of birth: Liège, Belgium
- Nationality: Belgian
- Occupation: Professional soccer player
- Height: 6 feet 1 inch (1.86 meters)
- Parents: Thierry Witsel (Father), Sylvie Witsel (Mother)
- Siblings: None
- Spouse: Rafaella Szabo
- Children: Mai-Li Witsel, Evy Witsel
- Relationship status: Married
- Net worth: $6 million
Early life and education
Axel Laurent Angel Lambert Witsel, now 35 years old, was born on January 12, 1989 in Liège, Belgium.
Raised by his father, Thierry, and mother, Sylvie, Witsel had a loving and supportive childhood.
From an early age, he showed a strong passion for football, spending countless hours playing on the streets of his hometown.
Growing up in Liège, Witsel focused on his studies while pursuing his sporting dreams.
His commitment to both academic and football excellence laid the foundation for future success, shaping the well-rounded individual he is today.
Personal life
In his personal life, Axel Witsel finds companionship and love in the arms of his wife Rafaella Szabo.
Their journey began at a young age, when they formed a deep bond rooted in their shared passion for football.
Over time, their relationship developed into a deep bond, culminating in a happy marriage.
They are the proud parents of two beautiful daughters, Mai-Li and Evy.
Career
Axel Witsel’s professional career began in his early days at Standard Liège’s youth academy, where his exceptional talent quickly attracted the attention of scouts.
In 2006, he made his first-team debut for the club, demonstrating his exceptional ability as a midfielder. Witsel’s impressive performances on the pitch soon attracted the attention of top European clubs, leading to his move to SL Benfica in 2011.
During his time at Benfica, Witsel continued to improve his game and established himself as a key player in the team’s midfield.
His contributions were pivotal to the team’s success, earning him praise and admiration from fans and colleagues alike.
In 2012, Witsel made a significant step forward in his career when he joined Zenit Saint Petersburg, where he further cemented his reputation as one of the top midfielders in football.
In 2018, Witsel started a new chapter in his career when he moved to Borussia Dortmund, a famous club in Germany’s Bundesliga.
His arrival injected new energy into the team as he quickly emerged as a mainstay in Dortmund’s midfield.
With his vision, passing ability and tactical understanding, Witsel played a key role in the club’s pursuit of success both domestically and in Europe.
Throughout his career, Witsel represented the Belgium national team with distinction, winning numerous caps and awards on the international stage.
His contributions to the national team’s midfield were invaluable, helping Belgium achieve notable successes at major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship.
Prize
- Belgian Golden Shoe: 2008
- Belgian Professional Footballer of the Year: 2008
- Russian Premier League Best Midfielder: 2015
- Belgian Sportsman of the Year: 2019
Net worth
Axel Witsel’s net worth is $6 million, reflecting lucrative contracts, endorsement deals, and investments accumulated throughout his illustrious career as a professional soccer player.
Social media
- Instagram: @axelwitsel28
- Twitter: @axelwitsel28
