Who are the Top Futbol Players Born in Georgia?

By Jayson Panganiban December 27, 2023 08:27

Photo by Alex Livesey/Allsport

Georgia, a country located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, has a rich history in football. Over the years, it has produced several talented players who have made a significant impact on the sport. From skillful midfielders to powerful strikers, Georgian footballers have excelled in various positions on the field. In this article, we will explore some of the top football players born in Georgia who have made a name for themselves both nationally and internationally.

Kakha Kaladze

Kakha Kaladze is one of the most successful footballers to come out of Georgia. Born on February 27, 1978, in Samtredia, he began his professional career with Dinamo Tbilisi, a Georgian football club. Kaladze's exceptional skills and performances caught the attention of AC Milan, one of Italy's top clubs, where he played from 2001 to 2010. During his time at Milan, he won numerous domestic and international titles, including the UEFA Champions League twice.

Shota Arveladze

Shota Arveladze, born on February 22, 1973, in Kutaisi, is another prominent Georgian football player. Known for his goal-scoring ability, Arveladze had successful stints with several clubs, including Trabzonspor in Turkey and Rangers in Scotland. He was a key player for the Georgian national team, scoring 26 goals in 61 appearances. Arveladze's skill and consistency earned him a reputation as one of Georgia's finest footballers.

Temuri Ketsbaia

Temuri Ketsbaia, born on March 18, 1968, in Gali, is widely regarded as one of the greatest Georgian football players of all time. He had an illustrious career, playing for clubs like AEK Athens and Newcastle United. Ketsbaia's most memorable moment came during his time at Newcastle, where he scored a dramatic last-minute winner against Bolton Wanderers, celebrating by kicking an advertising board in wild jubilation. This iconic celebration has become synonymous with his name.

Levan Kobiashvili

Levan Kobiashvili, born on July 10, 1977, in Tbilisi, is a versatile footballer who has played in various positions throughout his career. He represented the Georgian national team for over a decade, earning 100 caps and scoring 12 goals. Kobiashvili played for several clubs in Germany, including Hertha BSC and Schalke 04. His leadership qualities and technical abilities on the field made him a respected figure in Georgian football.

Giorgi Kinkladze

Giorgi Kinkladze, born on July 6, 1973, in Tbilisi, is regarded as one of the most talented players to come out of Georgia. Known for his dribbling skills and creativity, Kinkladze had successful spells with clubs like Manchester City and Derby County in England. He mesmerized fans with his exceptional ball control and ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. Kinkladze's performances earned him a cult following among football enthusiasts.

Zurab Khizanishvili

Zurab Khizanishvili, born on October 6, 1981, in Tbilisi, is a former Georgian footballer who primarily played as a defender. He had a successful career, playing for clubs like Dundee United, Blackburn Rovers, and Rangers. Khizanishvili was known for his physicality, aerial prowess, and leadership skills on the field. He represented the Georgian national team for over a decade, earning 92 caps.

Jaba Kankava

Jaba Kankava, born on July 18, 1986, in Tbilisi, is a talented midfielder who has had a significant impact on Georgian football. He played for several clubs in Ukraine, including Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk and Dynamo Kyiv. Kankava is known for his work rate, passing ability, and defensive contributions. He has also captained the Georgian national team, leading by example on and off the field.

Georgia has produced a remarkable number of talented football players who have achieved success both domestically and internationally. From Kakha Kaladze's triumphs with AC Milan to Giorgi Kinkladze's mesmerizing skills in England, these players have left a lasting impact on the sport. Their achievements have not only brought pride to Georgia but have also inspired the next generation of aspiring footballers in the country. As Georgian football continues to grow, the legacy of these top players will serve as a testament to the country's footballing talent.