Euzebiusz Smolarek, better known as Ebi, recorded 19 goals for the Polish national football team during his 47 international appearances. Born on 9 January 1981 in Łódź, he spent his formative years in the Netherlands, where his father, Włodzimierz Smolarek, maintained a professional career in the Eredivisie as both a player and a coach.
Early Career and Feyenoord
Smolarek emerged through the youth academy at Feyenoord. His development coincided with the club's success, including a victory in the 2001–02 UEFA Cup. Throughout his tenure in the Netherlands, he gained experience as a winger and striker, laying the groundwork for a nomadic professional career that spanned several European leagues and competitions.
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Representing Poland since 2002, Smolarek was a primary offensive asset during the UEFA Euro 2008 qualification campaign. He served as the top scorer in Group A, tallying nine goals and outperforming competitors including Cristiano Ronaldo. His performance included a hat-trick against Kazakhstan in Warsaw and a decisive double in a 2–1 victory over Portugal. He participated in the 2006 FIFA World Cup and Euro 2008 tournaments, representing the nation in Switzerland and Austria.
Club Journeys
His club path included a significant move to Borussia Dortmund, where he made 81 appearances and scored 25 goals between 2005 and 2007. In August 2007, he transferred to Racing de Santander for a fee of €4.8 million. His time in Spain was followed by a loan to Bolton Wanderers for the 2008–09 season, where he scored his only goal during an FA Cup match against Sunderland. Subsequent stints included time with Kavala, Polonia Warsaw, Jagiellonia Białystok, and ADO Den Haag.
Post-Playing Activities
Following his retirement from active play, Smolarek shifted his focus toward administrative roles within the sport. He currently serves as the head of the Polish Union of Footballers, representing the interests of professional athletes within the country. He is recognized for his three consecutive titles as Polish Footballer of the Year, awarded by Piłka nożna magazine in 2005, 2006, and 2007.
Fast facts
- Born: 9 January 1981, Łódź
- International goals: 19
- Total international appearances: 47
- Primary positions: Striker and winger
- Polish Footballer of the Year awards: 2005, 2006, 2007
- Notable club honor: 2001–02 UEFA Cup
- Current role: Head of the Polish Union of Footballers
Questions readers ask
Did Ebi Smolarek score during the 2006 FIFA World Cup?
No, Smolarek did not score any goals during the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
What is his connection to the name Eusébio?
He was named after the Portuguese footballer Eusébio.
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