F.C. Copenhagen sign Ákos Markgráf

F.C. Copenhagen have signed 21-year-old Hungarian defender Ákos Markgráf from Újpest FC on a five-year contract. 

Markgráf is a new addition to the Copenhagen defence, where he can play as both a centre-back and a left-back. He recently turned 21 and played his first senior international for Hungary in June. 

The left-footed defender, as a versatile hybrid player, fits naturally into head coach Bo Svensson’s plans. 

“With Ákos we get an incredibly dynamic, fast and duel-ready defender,” says Svensson. 

“He is a direct player, works hard and brings a lot of physicality and power to our back line.

“We see him primarily as a left-footed centre-back, but it’s a huge plus that he can also play left-back. It gives us more strings to play on, and I’m really looking forward to working with him.” 

Kristjaan Speakman: An addition with great potential 
In addition to Markgráf’s qualities on the pitch, F.C. Copenhagen’s Director of Football, Kristjaan Speakman, also highlights the fact that the defender has shown great willingness to travel to Copenhagen and also speaks good English. 

“We are incredibly happy to welcome Ákos to our club,” says Speakman. 

“He is a dynamic and athletic profile who is eager to learn, develop and take the next step. He has gained important experience from senior football and has most recently represented his senior national team.

"He has shown strong development as a central defender, but also has the quality to cover other positions, which is interesting for the composition of the squad. He is extremely motivated to be here, and that is incredibly important for us.”

Markgráf: A fantastic opportunity 
Markgráf himself is looking forward to getting on the training pitch and immediately competing for playing time in defence. 

"I am very proud to sign with F.C. Copenhagen," says Markgráf. 

"It is a big club with huge ambitions and a fantastic setting in Parken. I have heard and read a lot about the club, and I am incredibly looking forward to experiencing my new home ground.

"I had no doubt that I would seize the opportunity when F.C. Copenhagen expressed their interest. I am coming to Copenhagen to fight for my place and learn from the other talented players in the squad.

"I have big ambitions, both for myself and for the club, so I will give everything to be a success for F.C. Copenhagen, so that together we can achieve great things.” 

Markgráf will wear the number 6 shirt, and it will not be changed after the transferwindow closes.