Players from the Past: Ian Azzopardi
28/01/2021
Ian Azzopardi was born on August 12, 1982. Azzopardi began his football career with Floriana, and made his debut during the 2000–01 season in a match against Pieta Hotspurs. During that season Azzopardi notched up just two appearances for Floriana. In Season 2001-02, Azzopardi failed to secure a place in the first team and made only two appearances.
In season 2002–03 season, Azzopardi secured a place with the Green`s first team and received his first cap for Malta on 14 December 2003 in a match against Poland. Ian made a total of 20 appearances during the season for Floriana.
During his carreer with Floriana, Azzopardi made 112 appearances and scored 4 goals. In June 2007, Ian Azzopardi left Floriana and joined rivals Sliema Wanderers after his contract with the Greens had expired. He made his debut with the Blue shirt on 27th August 2007, in a match against Msida St. Joseph.
With Sliema Wanderers, Ian made his appearance in 73 matches and scored two goals. Ian scored his first goal with the National squad, on 20 August 2008, in a 1–2 defeat to Estonia in a Friendly match.
Azzopardi left Sliema Wanderers in August 2010, and joined Valletta FC, his transfer also involved Steve Bezzina who joined the Blues on a one-year loan.
With Valletta Football Club Ian Azzopardi made a total of 187 appearances and scored 3 goals, winning four BOV Premier League Championships and several other honours.
Statistics: Victor Spiteri
