# Brede Hangeland

> Norwegian association football player

**Wikidata**: [Q310705](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q310705)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brede_Hangeland)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/brede-hangeland

## Summary
Brede Hangeland is a Norwegian association football player known for his professional career in both European and American leagues. He is recognized for his contributions to football, particularly through his time with clubs such as Fulham in England and Major League Soccer's Chicago Fire.

## Biography
- Born: 20 June 1981
- Nationality: Norway
- Education: Not specified
- Known for: Professional football career, notably with Fulham and Chicago Fire
- Employer(s): Fulham FC, Chicago Fire SC, various Norwegian clubs
- Field(s): Association Football

## Contributions
Brede Hangeland has made significant contributions to football through his roles at multiple professional clubs:
- **Fulham FC (2011–2013)**: Played as a defender, helping the team reach the UEFA Europa League semi-finals in 2012.
- **Chicago Fire SC (2014–2015)**: Joined Major League Soccer, contributing to the team’s defensive line.
- **Early Career**: Began professional play in Norway, including stints with Viking FK and other domestic clubs.
- **International Play**: Represented Norway in international competitions, adding to his national team experience.

His career reflects a strong presence in both European and North American football circuits, demonstrating adaptability and skill across different leagues.

## FAQs
**What teams did Brede Hangeland play for during his career?**  
Brede Hangeland played for several clubs, most notably Fulham FC in the English Premier League and Chicago Fire SC in Major League Soccer. He also played for Viking FK and other clubs in Norway earlier in his career.

**What position did Brede Hangeland play in football?**  
He played as a central defender, known for his height, aerial ability, and leadership on the field.

**Where was Brede Hangeland born and raised?**  
Brede Hangeland was born in Norway on 20 June 1981, though specific details about his upbringing are not provided.

**Did Brede Hangeland represent Norway internationally?**  
Yes, he earned caps playing for the Norwegian national team, participating in international matches and representing his country in the sport.

**How did Brede Hangeland transition from European to American football?**  
After a successful stint in England with Fulham FC, Hangeland joined Chicago Fire SC in Major League Soccer in 2014, marking his entry into American professional football.

## Why They Matter
Brede Hangeland's impact lies in his consistent performance as a reliable central defender across multiple leagues and countries. His tenure at Fulham FC contributed to their historic run in the UEFA Europa League, raising the club's international profile. In the U.S., his move to Chicago Fire brought European experience to Major League Soccer, influencing younger players and contributing to the league's growing competitiveness. His career exemplifies the globalization of football talent and the cross-pollination between European and American leagues.

## Notable For
- Representing Norway internationally in football
- Helping Fulham FC reach the UEFA Europa League semi-finals in 2012
- Transitioning successfully from Norwegian to English and American leagues
- Playing a key role in strengthening defensive lines at multiple clubs
- Earning recognition as a solid and consistent central defender
- Being awarded "Kniksen of the Year" in 2012, one of Norway’s top football honors

## Body

### Early Life and Career Beginnings
Brede Hangeland was born on 20 June 1981. He began his football journey in Norway, playing for local clubs including Viking FK. His early career was rooted in the Norwegian league system, where he developed the skills that would later make him a sought-after defender.

### Club Career
Hangeland's professional career spans multiple countries:
- **Viking FK**: Early club in Norway where he established himself as a strong central defender.
- **Fulham FC (2011–2013)**: One of his most notable tenures, Hangeland played a pivotal role in Fulham’s unexpected run to the UEFA Europa League semi-finals in 2012. His commanding presence in defense was crucial to the team’s achievements.
- **Chicago Fire SC (2014–2015)**: Transitioned to Major League Soccer, bringing international experience to the team. His time in MLS helped raise the defensive standards and added a global dimension to the squad.

### International Representation
Hangeland also represented Norway at the international level, earning caps and contributing to the national team’s defensive efforts. His international play underscored his reputation as a reliable and composed defender.

### Recognition and Awards
In 2012, Hangeland was honored with the "Kniksen of the Year" award, recognizing him as one of Norway’s top-performing footballers. This accolade highlighted his excellence in the sport and his influence on both club and national levels.

### Physical and Statistical Profile
- **Height**: 199 cm
- **Weight**: 92 kg
- **Position**: Central Defender
- **Career Start**: 2000
Hangeland’s physicality and aerial dominance made him a formidable presence on the pitch, traits that were instrumental in his success across various teams.

### Legacy and Influence
Brede Hangeland’s career reflects a blend of European and American football experiences. His contributions to clubs like Fulham and Chicago Fire, along with his international representation of Norway, have left a lasting impact on the teams he played for. His influence extends beyond individual performance, contributing to the broader narrative of global football talent mobility.

## References

1. [Source](https://urn.nb.no/URN:NBN:no-nb_digavis_rogalandsavis_null_null_20090711_110_157_1;page=19)
2. Transfermarkt
3. Great Norwegian Encyclopedia
4. Argentine Soccer Database
5. NFF database
6. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013