Haris Seferovic

“Football has shaped my life in so many ways—teaching me resilience, creating connections with amazing people, and showing me the highs and lows of the game. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of playing in a stadium filled with fans, scoring goals and winning games and championships, but the true essence of success lies in the dedication and hard work that happens off the pitch.

At Al Masar, I want to share the lessons I’ve learned throughout my journey. This academy is more than just a place to develop your football skills; it’s a community where we build character, teamwork, and a passion for the game. I believe every young player has the potential to achieve greatness, and it all begins with the belief in yourself.

Together, we’ll embrace challenges and celebrate every success, big or small. I’m here to guide you as you navigate your own path in football. Let’s create a space where your dreams find space and champions are made. My dream already came true, now its time for yours.  The journey starts now, and I can’t wait to see the heights we’ll reach together!”

INTRODUCTION

Born in Sursee, Switzerland, Haris Seferović’s journey to football greatness was fueled by determination, passion, and the unwavering support of his family. At a young age, Haris started kicking a ball around with a dream that was bigger than himself — to play on the world’s biggest stages.

Seferović’s professional career began with Grasshopper Club Zürich in Switzerland, where his talent quickly became undeniable. His breakthrough performance earned him a transfer to ACF Fiorentina in Italy’s Serie A, a critical move that opened doors to Europe’s elite football leagues​

Over the years, Haris played for several top clubs, including Real Sociedad in Spain, where he showcased his goal-scoring prowess. But it was at SL Benfica in Portugal where Haris truly shined, becoming a fan favorite and winning multiple league titles, along with the prestigious Primeira Liga Golden Boot​ as the best Striker.​

His time at Benfica solidified his reputation as a powerful and reliable forward, with over 57 goals in the Portuguese league.

Internationally, Haris has been a key figure for the Swiss national team for over a decade, representing his country in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 FIFA World Cups, as well as several European Championships​. 2019 he won the Swiss MVP award for he outstanding performance.

His iconic goal in the 2018 World Cup against Brazil remains a highlight of his career, reflecting his ability to perform on the grandest stages. With over 90 caps for Switzerland and crucial goals in qualifiers and tournaments, Haris has become one of the most recognizable faces in Swiss football.

Today, Haris is not only a football star but also a dedicated mentor to young athletes, driven by his passion to give back to the game that shaped his life. Through the Al Masar Football Academy, Haris shares the lessons he learned from his incredible journey—hard work, resilience, and the importance of teamwork. 

Career Overview

Clubs Played For:

• Grasshopper Club Zürich (Switzerland)
  • Years: 2009–2010
  • Made his professional debut at 17, scoring his first league goal for the Swiss giants and gaining early recognition for his talents.
• ACF Fiorentina (Italy)
  • Years: 2010–2013
  • Signed by Fiorentina but spent most of his time on loan, showcasing his versatility and gaining experience in European football.
• Loan to Neuchâtel Xamax (Switzerland)
  • Years: 2011
  • Returned to Switzerland on loan, scoring goals and playing a key role during his brief spell.
• Loan to US Lecce (Italy)
  • Years: 2012
  • Spent the remainder of the 2011-12 season in Italy’s Serie A, though with limited appearances.
• Loan to Novara (Italy)
  • Years: 2012–2013
  • Scored 10 goals for Novara in Serie B, further developing his scoring abilities.
• Real Sociedad (Spain)
  • Years: 2013–2014
  • Made his debut in La Liga and played in the UEFA Champions League, marking his first foray into elite European competition.
• Eintracht Frankfurt (Germany)
  • Years: 2014–2017
  • Played a pivotal role in Frankfurt’s journey to the DFB-Pokal Final in 2017 and regularly featured in the Bundesliga. Established himself as a dependable forward.
• SL Benfica (Portugal)
  • Years: 2017–2023
  • Achievements:
    • 3x Primeira Liga Champion: (2018–2019, 2021)
    • Portuguese Super Cup: (2019)
    • Top scorer of the 2018–2019 season with 23 goals.
    • Played in both UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League competitions.
  • Became a fan favorite for his goal-scoring prowess and his leadership on the field.
• Galatasaray (Turkey)
  • Years: 2022–2023 (Loan)
  • Played a key role in the Turkish Super Lig, scoring crucial goals. Briefly loaned to Celta Vigo (La Liga) during the 2022–2023 season.
• Al Wasl (UAE)
  • Years: 2023–Present
  • Currently playing for Al Wasl in the UAE Pro League.

Achievements:

• Swiss National Team:
  • Played for the Swiss National Team (A) from 2013 to 2023, earning 94 caps and scoring 25 goals.
  • Competed in the 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cups, as well as multiple UEFA European Championships.
  • Won the FIFA U-17 World Cup with Switzerland in 2009, scoring the winning goal in the final.
• Individual Awards:
  • Top Scorer in Primeira Liga (2018–2019): Scored 23 goals in the league, earning the Golden Boot in Portugal.
  • Swiss Player of the Year (2019): Named the best Swiss footballer, highlighting his peak form during his time at Benfica.
• Club Achievements:
  • Primeira Liga: 2018–2019
  • Portuguese Super Cup: 2019
  • DFB-Pokal Finalist: Reached the final with Eintracht Frankfurt in 2017.
  • Featured in several UEFA Champions League and Europa League campaigns with Benfica, including knockout stages.
  • UAE Pro League: 2023 – 2024