Marko Arnautović, the Austrian international striker, is a name synonymous with both prodigious talent and occasional controversy. A powerful forward with a touch of flair and an eye for the spectacular, his career has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, marked by moments of brilliance interspersed with periods of inconsistency and disciplinary issues.
Born in Vienna to a Serbian father and Austrian mother, Arnautović rose through the ranks of Austrian football before making his mark in the Netherlands with FC Twente. His performances caught the eye of Inter Milan, where he was loaned in 2009, though his impact was limited due to injury and a lack of first-team opportunities. He then moved to Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga, where he showcased glimpses of his potential, demonstrating his technical ability, strength, and aerial prowess.
Arnautović’s career took a significant turn when he joined Stoke City in 2013. Under manager Mark Hughes, he became a key player for the Potters, playing a crucial role in their attacking line-up. During his time in Stoke, he delivered some stunning goals and became a firm favourite with the fans, showcasing his dribbling skills and ability to strike the ball with venom. He possessed a unique blend of physical presence and technical finesse, making him a difficult opponent for defenders.
His success at Stoke led to a move to West Ham United in 2017. At West Ham, Arnautović arguably enjoyed his most consistent spell in the Premier League. Initially deployed as a winger, he was eventually moved to a central striker role, where he thrived. He became the Hammers’ talisman, leading the line with power and precision. His goals were vital in helping West Ham secure their Premier League status, and he earned the club’s ‘Hammer of the Year’ award in 2018.
Despite his popularity and importance to West Ham, Arnautović’s time in London was cut short by a lucrative offer from Chinese Super League club Shanghai SIPG in 2019. This move, driven by financial considerations, was met with disappointment by many West Ham fans who felt he was abandoning the club. His time in China was relatively unremarkable, although he did contribute goals to the team.
In 2021, Arnautović returned to Europe, joining Bologna in Serie A. He quickly established himself as a key player, finding the net regularly and demonstrating his continued ability to compete at a high level. More recently, he joined Inter Milan again in 2023, showing that he still has something to offer to top European clubs.
Throughout his career, Arnautović has also been a key figure for the Austrian national team. He is one of Austria’s all-time leading goalscorers and has represented his country at major international tournaments, including the European Championships. He is often seen as a leader on the pitch, inspiring his teammates with his passion and determination.
Marko Arnautović remains a complex and often misunderstood figure. His undeniable talent has always been tempered by moments of indiscipline and controversy. However, his skill, power, and ability to score goals have made him a valuable asset to every team he has played for. Whether loved or criticized, he is undoubtedly a captivating player who leaves a lasting impression.