Peter Schmeichel - A Detailed Overview
Introduction
Peter Bolesław Schmeichel, MBE, born on 18th November 1963, is a renowned Danish footballer with a distinguished career as a professional goalkeeper. He is best recognized for his most successful years spent at Manchester United, whom he captained to victory in the 1999 UEFA Champions League final to complete a treble. Known for his intimidating stature and reflex skills, he is often considered one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history. Post retirement, Schmeichel has extensively been involved in television, including presenting and expertise on football broadcasts.
Early Life & Beginnings
Born in the Greater Copenhagen town of Gladsaxe, Schmeichel displayed a keen interest in football since childhood. He took his first steps in football at Hvidovre, a club based in the suburbs of Copenhagen. He began as a forward but later transitioned into a goalkeeper. After gaining experience in local clubs and juggling various part-time jobs, Schmeichel's professional career took off in 1987 when he joined Brondby.
Brondby Career
Schmeichel's professional footballing debut was for Danish club Brondby, where he won four championships over the course of four years. He played an instrumental role in the team's 1987 Danish Cup victory which earned them a ticket to UEFA football. His performance at Brondby attracted the attention of foreign clubs, especially Manchester United. Schmeichel bid farewell to Brondby in 1991, leaving a memorable final impression with a performance that famously denied Liverpool FC during a UEFA competition.
Manchester United Career
Schmeichel joined Manchester United in 1991 under the direction of Sir Alex Ferguson. He spent eight fruitful years at the club and is often hailed as one of the key figures in Manchester United's resurgence as a leading force in English football. Schmeichel played a vital role in the team's five Premier League wins, three FA Cup victories, and the historic 1999 UEFA Champions League triumph. His role as the team's last line of defence, combined with his daring goalkeeping style and remarkable saves, put him in the pantheon of the club's legends. Schmeichel left the club in 1999, following the treble-winning season.
Post Manchester United Career
After leaving Manchester United, Schmeichel moved to Portugal to play for Sporting CP. He spent two years with the club, and while it wasn’t as successful as his time in Manchester, he helped Sporting win the Portuguese Supercup in 2000. Schmeichel returned to England in 2001, and had brief stints with Aston Villa and Manchester City before announcing retirement in 2003.
International Career
Schmeichel had a distinguished international career, earning 129 caps for Denmark. He represented his nation in several major international tournaments, including the 1992 UEFA European Championship, where Denmark emerged as unexpected winners. Schmeichel’s performance was crucial in Denmark’s journey, especially his saves in the semi-final penalty shootout. He last represented Denmark in the 2002 World Cup.
Playing Style and Legacy
Schmeichel was renowned for his formidable physical presence, lightning quick reflexes, courage under high balls, and vocal presence on the field. He was known for his trademark 'star jump' saves, designed to intimidate forwards. Schmeichel, with his impressive shot-stopping skills and the ability to marshal his defence, left an indelible impact on modern goalkeeping. He was named the 'World’s Best Goalkeeper' in 1992 and 1993 by the IFFHS.
Post-Retirement Activities
Schmeichel transitioned to a career in media following his retirement from professional football. He worked as a football host for the BBC and presented live UEFA Champions League games. He also appeared on various reality TV shows and acted as a football commentator and pundit for several networks. Moreover, Schmeichel involved himself in efforts to develop footballing talents, authoring an instructional DVD on goalkeeping techniques.
Personal Life
Schmeichel has been married twice and he is a father of five. His son, Kasper Schmeichel, followed in his father's footsteps to become a professional football goalkeeper and has played for clubs like Leicester City and represented Denmark at international level. Away from football, Schmeichel is a keen poker player, often participating in some of the world's biggest poker tournaments. He also uses his platform for numerous charitable causes.
