1. Overview
Ogün Temizkanoğlu (born October 6, 1969) is a Turkish former international footballer who primarily played as a central defender. He spent the majority of his club career with Trabzonspor and Fenerbahçe, and also played for Konyaspor and Akçaabat Sebatspor. Internationally, he represented the Turkey national football team at the 1991 Mediterranean Games, UEFA Euro 1996 (as vice-captain), and UEFA Euro 2000 (as captain). After retiring from playing, he transitioned into a career as a football pundit and had a brief stint as the manager of the Turkey women's national football team.
2. Early life and background
Ogün Temizkanoğlu was born on October 6, 1969, in Hamm, West Germany.
3. Career
Ogün Temizkanoğlu's career in football spanned over a decade as a professional player before he transitioned into coaching and media roles.
3.1. Playing career
3.1.1. Club career
Ogün Temizkanoğlu primarily played as a central defender throughout his club career. He spent significant periods with Trabzonspor and Fenerbahçe, two prominent clubs in Turkish football. Additionally, he played for Konyaspor and Akçaabat Sebatspor. He officially retired from professional football on August 12, 2005, following the termination of his contract with Akçaabat Sebatspor.
3.1.2. International career
Temizkanoğlu earned caps for the Turkey national football team. His international career highlights include representing Turkey at the 1991 Mediterranean Games, where the team finished as runners-up. He was also a key participant in two major tournaments: UEFA Euro 1996, where he served as the team's vice-captain, and UEFA Euro 2000, where he led the team as captain.
3.2. Managerial and punditry career
After concluding his playing career, Ogün Temizkanoğlu transitioned into roles outside of active competition. He became a prominent football pundit, regularly appearing on television programs to offer analysis and commentary on football matches and events. Furthermore, he briefly served as the manager of the Turkey women's national football team in 2012.
4. Honours
Trabzonspor
- Turkish Cup: 1991-92, 1994-95
- Turkish Super Cup: 1995
Turkey
- Mediterranean Games runner-up: 1991
5. Legacy and reception
Ogün Temizkanoğlu is remembered as a resilient central defender and a significant figure in Turkish football of his era. His extensive club career with Trabzonspor and Fenerbahçe, combined with his leadership roles, including vice-captaincy and captaincy for the Turkey national football team in major tournaments, underscore his importance and enduring influence. His transition into a football punditry role further solidified his continued presence and impact on the sport within Turkey.