Tim Hoogland became Melbourne Victory’s newest recruit after signing a one-year contract last week.
The 34-year-old will offer experience and a range of defensive skills to Marco Kurz, as Victory’s Head Coach continues to prepare his squad for the 2019/20 season.
Our home is now his home! Welcome to #MVFC, Tim Hoogland 🇩🇪 #OurVictory pic.twitter.com/I6anAJD7DR
— Melbourne Victory (@gomvfc) August 16, 2019
Hoogland is Victory’s second signing from Vfl Bochum, after Robbie Kruse arrived from Germany in July.
“I’ve heard great things about the club and the A-League,” said the German. “With Robbie and Marco there too, I will definitely feel at home.”
As Hoogland settles into Melbourne and prepares for a new chapter of his career, here are some highlights of his career so far.
Making an impression
In February 2005, Hoogland made his professional debut in the 75th minute of Schalke’s visit to Hansa Rostock. Aged 19 at the time, Hoogland had made a name for himself in Schalke’s reserve team – playing over 40 times and scoring seven goals.
Two-time Bundesliga runner-up
In Hoogland’s debut season, Schalke finished second in the Bundesliga. Two years later, Schalke finished as runners-up again – trailing Stuttgart by two points. Hoogland made 10 appearances that campaign, but left S04 in 2007.
Promotion in 2009
In the 2008/2009 season, Hoogland achieved promotion to the Bundesliga with FSV Mainz. After playing a total of 37 games, Hoogland’s consistency paid off as Mainz secured a top-two finish in Germany’s second tier.
Champions League experience
In the 2013/2014 Champions League Round of 16, Schalke was drawn to face Real Madrid. In the 31st minute of the clash at the Santiago Bernabéu, Hoogland equalised for Schalke – cancelling out Cristiano Ronaldo’s opener.
Put your hand up if you've scored against @realmadrid at the Bernabéu! 🙋♂️ #MVFC #OurVictory pic.twitter.com/tWrHSAeg6e
— Melbourne Victory (@gomvfc) August 16, 2019
A spell in England
In 2014, Hoogland signed for Championship side Fulham on a free transfer. The German defender bagged on his debut and featured in 28 games that season, scoring three more. After one year in England, Hoogland swapped West London for West Germany – signing for Vfl Bochum.
MATCH PHOTO: Tim Hoogland celebrates his goal in front of the Cottage. #FFC @backpageimages pic.twitter.com/grJJ6PvfSM
— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) August 30, 2014