At the age of 17 years and 251 days, Pierre-Emile Højbjerg set a benchmark as the youngest player to debut for the Bayern Munich first team in the Bundesliga. Since that 2013 professional entry, the Copenhagen-born midfielder has navigated top-flight leagues across Germany, England, and France, establishing himself as a fixture in international association football.
Early Development in Denmark
Born in 1995, Højbjerg began his association with the sport at age five by training at local club Skjold. His youth career included spells at Skjold, KB, and Brøndby, where he developed the versatility that defined his later professional play. Initially deployed as a striker, he transitioned into a central midfield role as his career progressed. His early potential was marked by individual honors, including the Danish under-17 player of the year award in 2011 and the Danish talent of the year distinction in 2013.
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Højbjerg signed with Bayern Munich in July 2012. He made his professional debut in April 2013 against 1. FC Nürnberg. During his time at the club, he contributed to domestic success, notably starting the 2014 DFB-Pokal final. To gain consistent playing time, he pursued loan spells at FC Augsburg and Schalke 04 between 2015 and 2016. By the conclusion of his German tenure, he opted to seek a starting position elsewhere, leading to a permanent move to English football.
Premier League Stints
In 2016, Højbjerg joined Southampton for an estimated £12.8 million fee. He spent four years with the Saints, serving as team captain before a transfer to Tottenham Hotspur in 2020 for a reported £15 million. During his time in London, he became a central defensive midfielder under José Mourinho and finished the 2020–21 season as the Premier League player with the most minutes played. He remained at Tottenham until 2024, recording 184 appearances for the club.
Move to Ligue 1
In July 2024, Højbjerg transitioned to French club Marseille on an initial loan arrangement. His debut featured a 5–1 victory over Brest. Following his performance, he was appointed a team captain by November. By May 2025, his permanent transfer to Marseille was finalized through an obligation-to-buy clause. Alongside his club duties, he has represented the Denmark national team since 2014, participating in UEFA Euro 2020, the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and Euro 2024.
Fast facts
- Born: 1995, Copenhagen
- Professional debut: 13 April 2013
- Former clubs: Bayern Munich, Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur
- Current club: Marseille
- Citizenship: Denmark, France
- 2013 Danish talent of the year award recipient
- International debut: 28 May 2014
Questions readers ask
Which positions does Pierre-Emile Højbjerg play?
While he was a striker in his youth and has played as a right wide midfielder, he primarily operates as a defensive or central midfielder.
Has Højbjerg represented Denmark in major tournaments?
Yes, he has played for the national team at UEFA Euro 2020, the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and Euro 2024.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player
