Emre Can

Emre Can – Life, Career, and (Some) Quotes

Emre Can (born January 12, 1994) is a German professional footballer of Turkish descent known for his versatility across midfield and defense. Dive into his journey, achievements, style, and the lessons from his career.

Introduction

Emre Can is a modern footballer whose adaptability, grit, and tactical intelligence have made him a valued presence at top European clubs and for the German national team. While he may not have the same “author quote” legacy as a writer or philosopher, his public statements and career speak to dedication, resilience, and professionalism. As of 2025, he captains Borussia Dortmund and remains a senior national team option for Germany.

Early Life and Family

Emre Can was born on January 12, 1994 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Growing up in Frankfurt, he played youth soccer locally before being scouted by bigger clubs.

Youth and Education / Development

From a very young age, Can showed promise in football:

• He began with SV Blau-Gelb Frankfurt, a local club in his hometown.

• In 2006, he joined the youth academy of Eintracht Frankfurt.

• In 2009, he transferred to the youth system of Bayern Munich to further his development.

Although he didn’t pursue formal higher education in the public record, his football training and youth progression served as his “school” in sporting terms.

Career and Achievements

Breaking Into Professional Football

At Bayern Munich:

• Can made his senior debut with Bayern Munich II (the reserve side) and made a few appearances for the first team.

• He was part of the Bayern squad during their successful 2012–13 season, though his appearances were limited.

Seeking more playing opportunities, he moved:

• In August 2013, Emre Can transferred to Bayer Leverkusen, where he became a regular starter and displayed performance consistency in Bundesliga.

Liverpool and International Exposure

• In June 2014, Liverpool activated a release clause (~£9.75 million) to sign Can.

• At Liverpool, he made over 150 appearances across all competitions in several seasons.

• Under manager Jürgen Klopp, he more regularly featured in midfield, showing his versatility across defensive and central roles.

Juventus and Return to Germany

• In 2018, Can joined Juventus on a multi-year contract.

• In January 2020, he moved on loan to Borussia Dortmund, which later became a permanent transfer.

• He has extended his contract with Dortmund (through 2026) and in 2023 became club captain, succeeding Marco Reus.

• As captain, he played a key role in Dortmund reaching the 2024 UEFA Champions League final, though they lost to Real Madrid.

International Career with Germany

• Can has represented Germany from youth levels up to the senior team.

• He made his senior debut on 4 September 2015 in a European qualifier vs Poland.

• He was part of Germany’s squad in Euro 2016.

• He also played in the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup, which Germany won.

• More recently, in June 2024, he was called up to the German squad for Euro 2024 as a replacement for an injured player, and scored in the opening match vs Scotland.

Style of Play & Personality

Versatility is perhaps Can’s most celebrated attribute. Although primarily a central midfielder, he has been deployed in multiple roles: defensive midfield, center-back, full-back, or even wing-back when needed.

He is praised for:

• Physical strength and athleticism

• Tactical awareness, especially in intercepting plays and transitions

• Composure on the ball, managing possession and distributions under pressure

• Leadership qualities, particularly since becoming captain at Dortmund

• His journey also shows resilience, as he has weathered club changes, injuries, and high expectations.

In personal life, Can is a practicing Muslim and has talked publicly about his beliefs and values. thyroid cancer, which required surgery.

Memorable Statements & Quotes

While Emre Can is not primarily known as a “quotable author,” here are a few remarks and sentiments from interviews and public commentary:

“I am an absolute pacifist and against all forms of war.”
(Said in context when commenting on a social media political post.)

Regarding faith and identity, Can has spoken of balancing his religious convictions and football career — indicating his beliefs guide but do not limit his professional ambition.

Though not many polished “motivation quotes” exist, his actions and spoken reflections often align with themes of discipline, humility, and perseverance.

Lessons from Emre Can

1. Adaptability is a key to longevity
   Emre Can’s ability to occupy multiple positions has given coaches flexibility and made him more indispensable.

2. Resilience through adversity
   From battling illness to handling transfers and competition, he’s persisted and rebuilt his standing.

3. Leadership emerges through example
   Earning the captaincy at a top club like Dortmund reflects his influence beyond just skills.

4. Maintaining identity and balance
   He shows that it’s possible to be a professional athlete while staying true to personal beliefs and values.

5. Seize opportunity when it arrives
   His move from Bayern (where playing time was limited) to other clubs illustrates that sometimes stepping away is necessary for growth.

Conclusion

Emre Can is a standout example of a modern, versatile footballer whose career reflects both tactical flexibility and personal resolve. Though he may not have the literary legacy of an author, his life and career carry messages about hard work, adaptability, and integrity.