Nicknamed “Ozwall” for his formidable defensive skills and ability to act as a solid wall against opposing attackers, Ozan Kabak has carved out a notable reputation in football. The talented Turkish defender is the son of a prison director, and his upbringing was marked by constant movement across various Turkish cities due to his father’s job. Despite the frequent relocations, Ozan’s passion for football remained unwavering. He played wherever his father’s job took the family, always finding a way to pursue his love for the game.
From Prison Director’s Son to Football GEM: Ozan Kabak’s Journey.
As he neared the end of his academy years, Kabak faced a challenge—he was considered too skinny, which concerned his club. To address this, the club management encouraged him to focus on physical training, helping him build the strength needed to compete at higher levels. This dedication paid off, and Kabak excelled in the Turkish league at a young age. With dreams of playing in Europe, he eventually made his way to the Premier League, achieving a lifelong goal of wearing the iconic Liverpool shirt and playing alongside his childhood hero, the legendary Virgil van Dijk. Ozan Kabak’s journey is a testament to determination, adaptability, and the pursuit of one’s dreams despite the odds.
Preamble:
In short, we present a detailed account of the life of Ozan Kabak, the talented Turkish footballer from Ankara. Starting with his early years, we take you through his journey to becoming a celebrated defender. To give you a glimpse of Ozan Kabak’s inspiring story, we’ve included a visual timeline that captures key moments from his childhood to his rise to stardom. There’s no denying that Ozan has come a long way in his remarkable career, overcoming numerous challenges to reach the top. Let’s dive into the fascinating journey of this resilient footballer.
Achieving Dreams: Ozan Kabak’s Path from Childhood to the moment he achieved fame in the beautiful game.
Ozan Kabak Childhood Story:
For Biography starters, he bears the nickname – Ozwall. Ozan Muhammed Kabak was born on the 25th day of March 2000 to his father, a Prison Director, and mother, a homemaker, in Ankara, the capital city of Turkey.
The Turkish professional footballer came to the world as the first son and second child, out of three children born to the union between his parents whom we have pictured here.
Meet Ozan Kabak’s parents. Can you tell whom the footballer resembles?
Growing Up in Turkey:
The Centre-back enjoyed his childhood years alongside his older sister and a younger brother, who goes by the name Emre.
Interestingly, Emre is also into football and wants to be like Ozan. Little age difference separates both brothers, and we bet that it is hard for you to tell the difference between Ozan and Emre.
Ozan Kabak’s Family. He grew up alongside two siblings – an elder sister and a younger brother, Emre.
Secondly, in terms of growing up, are you aware that Ozwall had a nomadic childhood? Yes!… In fact, He grew up in many Turkish cities owing to the nature of his father’s job as a Prison Director.
Amid the movements, the youngster developed an intense love for watching and practising football.
Back then, Ozan was a staunch supporter of Liverpool because he loved their red colour. His two football idols – Stephen Gerrard and Luis Suarez – always give him joy watching their games.
Ozan Kabak Family Background:
Growing up, there are three certainties in life – a humble, happy, or rough upbringing. Kabak had a happy childhood, and his parents brought him up in a humble way.
His joyful upbringing is somewhat connected to the fact that his Dad, a Prison Director, is rich. Not to forget, he comes from a family who are football enthusiasts.
Ozan Kabak Family Origin:
This map of Turkey portrays Ozan Kabak’s family origin.
The Ankara native, like Kerem Akturkoglu, is a bonafide Turkish national. Results from deeper research carried out to determine his family lineage indicate Ozan has both Asian and European roots.
Well, we don’t find that surprising because Turkey straddles Asia and Europe.
Ozan Kabak Education:
Like many children of Turkey, his parents had him go through primary education. Going to secondary school was a bit challenging because of the need to multitask between football and his books.
Despite that, our boy graduated with honours as he won a Science High School award in Istanbul.
Ozan Kabak Biography – Football Story:
Contrary to widespread misinformation rocking the Internet, Ozwall’s journey in soccer did not begin at Galatasaray. As a matter of fact, he took his first steps in the sport with Silivrispor as a striker.
Ozan Kabak went through a tiring process during his youth. He multitasked heavily as regards education and wanting to be a footballer.
Our boy almost gave up on becoming a footballer during these difficult times. Thankfully, his parents and club supported him.
Early Life in Career Football:
By the time Kabak was 12 years old, he went for trials at Galatasaray and was successful at it.
Thus began his journey at the club, where they saw to his conversion from a striker to a defender. Giving the reason behind the conversion, academy coach Nedim Yigit remarked that:
“He had a running style which frightened opponents.
In fact, every time Ozan got the ball, he runs with it as well as protects it.
Therefore, we decided he should be a full-back because he cared for the ball and carried it forward so well.”
Initially, young Kabak was not happy with the change. However, he was quick to adapt to it. Thankfully, he rose through the club’s academy ranks without issues.
During his early life with the club, Ozan Kabak’s parents offered to enrol their son in a private high school. But he never liked that.
In the end, they agreed that he should be a boarding student with Galatasaray.
Living his life within the club’s training grounds gave the youngster lots to learn and boosted his maturity.
Secondary schooling soon became a past, and Ozan used all his time to face football – his only job. By the time he grabbed this honour, almost everyone knew he would certainly be successful in life.
Ozan Kabak Early Career Success.
Being selected by his country for the 2017 UEFA European under-17 Championship gave Ozan the fame of national recognition – although on a small scale.
The youngster helped Turkey reach the last four of the tournament, where he grazed the field against talents like Emile Smith Rowe, Man City’s Phil Foden, Forest’s Callum Hodson Odoi, and United’s Jadon Sancho. Sadly, his team was eliminated by Italy.
Road To Fame Story:
Towards the end of his academy years, Kabak wasn’t far from being too skinny. Responding to this, the club’s management tasked him with hitting the gym. That prepared him for the physicality that he would face in senior football.
Before graduating from the academy, the rising star bonded with senior players who guided on how to stay humble. Also, the secrets to having a successful start to senior football.
When Ozwall eventually signed his first professional contract with Galatasaray, it was evident that he had prospects of becoming the next-rated young defender.
As luck would have it, he began a senior career life on a clean slate. Ozan made his professional debut by helping his team in a 2–0 Süper Lig win over rivals Yeni Malatyaspor on 12 May 2018.
Beating all the odds stacked on his way, he handled all pressure by warding off opposing strikers.
Ozan played against the likes of Emmanuel Adebayor and Beşiktaş hit man – Anderson Talisca. Back then, these men were the biggest strikers in Turkish football.
With Bafetimbi Gomis on his team, helping them to deliver goals, Kabak played his usual role in providing a shielded defence. Together, his entire Lion team went on to win the prestigious 2017/18 Super Lig title.
Just after the win, it became clear to the Turkish federation that a perfect partner to Çağlar Söyüncü (a Turkish defensive star) had arrived.
To the joy of Ozan Kabak’s family and well-wishers, one of their own got a call to represent the Turkish national team.
Ozan Kabak Biography – Success Story:
After achieving much for the Turkish league at a relatively young age, the commanding and technically gifted defender began setting his eyes on Europe.
Kabak left his parent club, Galatasaray, for VfB Stuttgart. There, he did a good job in ensuring that the club did not suffer relegation.
Interestingly, it was with VfB that the rising star entered the record books as Turkish youngest and third-youngest Stuttgart player to score twice in a single Bundesliga match.
With that goal, including several sublime performances, he went on to win the Bundesliga Rookie of the 2018/2019 Season.
Ozan Kabak enjoyed a blissful life with VfB Stuttgart.
Observing he was fast becoming one of the fastest-rising defenders in the world, Schalke took an opportunity. They activated his release clause.
Are you Aware?… Schalke went from bad to worse in defence before his arrival, and while there, Kabak helped them hold it – without making them suffer relegation.
Truth be told, Ozan Kabak has been as solid as a rock for the Royal Blues. In his first year at the Schalke senior team, he, like Malick Thiaw, established himself with several great performances.
Fast forward to the time of writing the defender’s childhood story and biography, he arrived in England after Liverpool completed a loan deal for him.
Ozan joined following the inability of Rhy Williams to relieve Red’s defence after several injuries to their top defenders.
Did you know?… The ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone‘ song was among the things that made Ozan so eager and determined to join Liverpool. We got to find out during his amazing first interview with the club.
There’s no denying that the transfer was a dream come true for Ozan. Although some viewed him as a Liverpool panic buy, it was a chance for him to play for the club he had supported since childhood.
We also learned he idolizes Virgil van Dijk. Whichever way things turn out for him at Anfield, the rest, as they say, will be history.
Ozan Kabak Family Facts:
It’s no secret that he is loved by fans for what he does on the field of play. However, there are a few people who love him more for just existing.
These are the Kabak family. Here, we’ll will bring you facts about Ozan Kabak’s parents. We’ll also make some truths about his siblings and relatives.
About Ozan Kabak Father:
His Dad worked in Turkish prisons, where he rose so high that he became a prison director.
Did you know?… Ozan Kabak’s father was once a footballer who couldn’t get past the amateur stages of the game.
Not reaching the level he wanted, the popular Prison Director supported his son in continuing to live the Kabak family dream.
Meet Ozan Kabak’s Father. He is a famous Prison Director in Turkey.
Back then, it was difficult for Ozan to continue his career in Galatasaray because his father was transferred to Tekirdağ, a city in northeastern Turkey. This was the major reason he requested accommodation in Galatasaray.
About Ozan Kabak Mother:
She is often branded as ‘Very Supportive’. Ozan’s mum was instrumental in driving her son to train during his Dad’s busy schedule with the Turkish Prisons. Behold the best picture we could find of the proud mother of three.
Meet Ozan Kabak’s mother. She is still beautiful even at her age.
On another note, we got to find out that Ozan Kabak’s mother is a homemaker. She takes credit for supporting her husband in instilling the values of discipline and education to her children.
Lastly, she makes it a point of duty to attend Kabak’s games and gives him moral support when he needs it.
About Ozan Kabak’s Brother:
His name is Emre Kabak and he looks exactly like his big brother, Ozan. Results from our research have it that Emre is also into soccer but has yet to achieve his breakthrough.
About Ozan Kabak’s Sister:
Though she appears younger in looks, this paragon of beauty is the older sister and firstborn child of the Kabak family. She took this photo with her brother during his 20th birthday celebration.
This is Ozan Kabak’s Sister. She is the eldest child of the family.
About Ozan Kabak’s relatives:
Away from his parents and siblings, there are no records of Ozwall’s extended family life, especially as it relates to his maternal and paternal grandparents.
Do you know his uncles, aunts? We will be happy to have you share that piece of information with us.
Also, it will be kind for our esteemed readers to volunteer information about his cousin, nephews, and nieces.
Personality:
Sportswriters lack words whenever it comes to describing the content of the centre-back’s character outside soccer. There’s really not much difference between who he is on the field and out of the pitch of play.
Ozan’s emotional intelligence, empathy, sense of humour, camaraderie, soft-spoken, and work ethics know no boundaries.
The defender doesn’t deny himself the pleasure of going on outings whenever he has the chance. Also, he hangs out with friends a lot and spends quality time with family.
Last but not least, Ozan Kabak is someone who never forgets where he comes from. Even with his hectic schedule, he always makes time to visit the place that shaped him into the successful footballer he is today. Check out this video that gives insight into his personality.
Ozan Kabak Lifestyle:
You need no epistle to understand that Ozwall is already living the life he dreamt of. This statement comes after we realized – that his salary at Liverpool is an improvement of the €2,025,916 that he used to take home at FC Schalke.
Despite the huge sums of money that go into his pockets, the Turkish professional footballer remains an antidote to using exotic cars.
Ozan is pictured here with his agent in what looks like an average car when compared to the thousands that he makes weekly.
Finally, regarding his lifestyle, we reckon that Kabak already has a net worth of €5 million regardless of the fact that he is very young.
Without a doubt, cruising in exotic cars and living in expensive houses/apartments should be fundamental rights of the starlet.
Facts About Ozan Kabak:
To wrap up this piece on Ozwall’s childhood story and biography, here are little-known or Untold truths about him.
The Spitting Story:
Everyone knows that ejecting saliva forcibly from one’s mouth to another is a gesture of anger.
For this reason, we conclusively say – Ozan Kabak isn’t a perfect footballer as many would look at him as.
The defender once caused a scandal after forcibly ejecting saliva on his opponent. He did that out of the frustration of seeing the team lose a match. Watch the video below.
FIFA 2021 Ratings:
This is Ozwall’s FIFA Stats. Jumping and Strength are his greatest assets.
The defender, just like fellow Turk Kenan Yildiz and Cengiz Ünder, enjoys a good FIFA rating to his name. In 2020, Ozan was one of the best youngsters in FIFA 20. Fast forward to 2021, and he is still the best promise for you to rock in Career Mode.
Ozan Kabak Religion:
Do we need to mention that Kabak is a dedicated Muslim like his compatriot Hakan Çalhanoğlu? No doubt, Islam is a predominant religion in Turkey, and the defender is one of the religion’s practising adherents.
Love For Van Dijk:
Since childhood, Ozan has been in love with Liverpool. He grew up admiring the likes of Steven Gerrard and Sami Hyypiä. Even before he dreamt of joining Liverpool, Ozan fought to have Virgil’s van Dijk No.4 Reds shirt.
A day before Christmas, December 24th, 2018, Ozan finally got the shirt he dreamt of. It was signed by his idol, Virgil van Dijk himself.
The signed Virgil shirt was presented to him by former Galatasaray team-mate Omer Bayram – a childhood friend of van Dijk.
Oz Wall supported his Idol on this day. Little did he know that he would play for Liverpool soonest.
Sharing the story behind how he got Virgil’s signed shirt, Kabak once said:
“I had a friend in Galatasaray named Omer Bayram. he is a childhood friend to Virgil van Dijk from Holland – my idol.
So I was talking with him and I said something nice about Virgil van Dijk. I told him he’s very good and I like him as my Idol.
Immediately, Omer told me Virgil was his childhood friend. I couldn’t believe it. Then the day after he shocked me, by bringing the footballer’s jersey to me.
Omer said He told Virgil about me and the dutch did more than an autograph. I was so happy. I put this jersey on my wall in my family house. That is the story!
We’ve gone further to show you a clear image of Virgil van Dijk’s autograph to Ozan. As seen below, the Dutch defender didn’t just sign. He was generous enough to write “To Ozan! All the Best!”
Ozan Kabak’s admiration for idol Virgil van Dijk led to a special signed jersey, gifted by childhood friend Omer Bayram, featuring the words “To Ozan! All the Best!”
EndNote:
Thanks for reading this informative piece on Ozan Kabak’s childhood story and biography. We hope that the centre-back’s exciting journey from Turkey to the Premier League has inspired you to believe that dreams come true.
From the onset, Kabak’s childhood dream was to play for Liverpool – talk less of featuring in the same team as his idol. More so, Ozan dreams of participating in the Euro 2024 Championship under the command of Italian football Legend Vincenzo Montella.
It behoves us to commend the defender’s parents for his excellent upbringing. In fact, they really did a good job and served as an example to parents of other football prodigies.
We take pride in delivering Turkish Football Players’ childhood stories and biography facts with accuracy and fairness. Without that, our memoir on Arda Guler and Cenk Tosun will satisfy your autobiography appetite. Let’s not forget the rising football sensation – Orkun Kokcu. If you see anything that doesn’t look right in Ozan Kabak’s Bio, do well to contact us or leave a message below.
