Former Premier League Star, 45, Fears D:ea:th After 3 Kidney Transplants & £4M Payout
Former Premier League Player Ivan Klasnic Reveals Health Crisis Due to Painkillers
Ivan Klasnic, a former professional footballer, has opened up about his critical health condition, expressing that he could pass away at any moment. His health deterioration is linked to painkillers prescribed during his time at his former club, which exacerbated an undiagnosed kidney issue.
The 45-year-old, renowned for his stint at Bolton and his time at Werder Bremen, has undergone three kidney transplants. In 2020, he secured a £4 million compensation from Bremen after discovering that club-prescribed painkillers worsened his kidney disease.
Klasnic shared his plight on German television, reflecting on his fragile state: “Who knows how much longer I have to live. I am grateful to still be alive, even though I am ill and depend on medication.” He expressed anger over the situation, stating, “It’s painful to endure this, and no amount of compensation can restore my health.”
Ivan Klasnic has spoken openly about his health struggles, saying he could die at any time
He explained the difficulty of playing professional football relying on painkillers, remarking, “It’s nearly impossible to perform without them. If I had known about my kidney problems earlier, I would never have taken those medicines.”
Klasnic’s career at Werder Bremen from 2001 to 2008 was marked by health issues. After experiencing kidney failure in 2007, he had his first transplant, which sidelined him for ten months. The following year, he sued the club, claiming medical staff were aware of his condition at least since 2002, leading to legal action against two doctors. Bremen’s medical personnel were eventually ordered to cover his medical expenses and damages.
Klasnic enjoyed a successful career at Bolton before their relegation, scoring 24 goals in 93 appearances
After signing for Bolton in 2009, Klasnic scored 24 goals across 93 matches. Despite prior kidney transplants, he continued playing until serious illness prompted another transplant in 2016. He initially received damages of £900,000, which was increased to over £4 million after legal proceedings, though he emphasized that health is priceless.
His lawyer noted that the compensation was a just recognition of the enduring damage to his client’s health, adding that the medical staff had finally expressed regret for their role in his suffering. Klasnic retired from professional football in 2013, having also played briefly for Mainz.