Mergim Berisha

Mërgim Berisha is a German professional footballer known for his versatility and goal-scoring abilities. As of November 2024, he plays as a forward for TSG 1899 Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga and has represented the German national team.

Basic Information:

• Full Name: Mërgim Berisha
• Date of Birth: May 11, 1998
• Place of Birth: Berchtesgaden, Germany
• Height: 1.88 meters (6 feet 2 inches)
• Position: Forward
• Current Club: TSG 1899 Hoffenheim
• Club Number: 10

Early Life and Youth Career:

Born in Berchtesgaden to Kosovo Albanian parents, Berisha began his football journey with FC Bischofswiesen. In 2008, he joined the youth academy of Red Bull Salzburg, where he developed his skills and progressed through the ranks.

Club Career:

• FC Liefering (2014–2017): Berisha made his professional debut with FC Liefering, the feeder team for Red Bull Salzburg, in 2014. He scored his first professional goal just 50 seconds after coming on as a substitute.
• Red Bull Salzburg (2017–2021): Promoted to the senior team, Berisha contributed to multiple Austrian Bundesliga and Austrian Cup victories. He also had loan spells with LASK, 1. FC Magdeburg, and Rheindorf Altach during this period.
• Fenerbahçe (2021–2023): In September 2021, Berisha signed a four-year contract with Turkish club Fenerbahçe, where he made 23 appearances and scored 5 goals.
• FC Augsburg (2022–2023): Berisha joined FC Augsburg on loan in August 2022, with an option to buy. He scored 9 goals and provided 4 assists in 23 Bundesliga games, leading to a permanent transfer in July 2023.
• TSG 1899 Hoffenheim (2023–Present): In August 2023, Berisha transferred to Hoffenheim, signing a contract until June 2027. As of November 2024, he has made 15 appearances and scored 1 goal for the club.

International Career:

Berisha represented Germany at the U21 level, earning 13 caps and scoring 1 goal. He made his senior debut for Germany in March 2023 and has earned 2 caps as of November 2024.

Notable Achievements:

• Club:
  • Austrian Bundesliga Champion: 2016–17, 2019–20, 2020–21 with Red Bull Salzburg
  • Austrian Cup Winner: 2016–17, 2019–20, 2020–21 with Red Bull Salzburg
• Individual:
  • UEFA Youth League Winner: 2016–17 with Red Bull Salzburg Youth

Playing Style:

Berisha is recognized for his versatility, capable of playing as a center-forward or winger. His strengths include aerial ability, technical skills, and a keen sense for goal-scoring opportunities.

Future Prospects:

At 26, Berisha is in the prime of his career. His move to Hoffenheim offers an opportunity to establish himself further in the Bundesliga and potentially increase his involvement with the national team.

Fun Fact:

Berisha scored his first professional goal just 50 seconds after coming on as a substitute in his debut match for FC Liefering.

Summary:

Mërgim Berisha’s journey from youth academies to professional football across Europe highlights his adaptability and goal-scoring prowess. His contributions at both club and international levels underscore his status as a notable forward in contemporary football.