Jan Oblak Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 24, 2025
As the calendar turns to 2025, few names in world football command as much respect in the penalty area as Jan Oblak.
The Slovenian shot-stopper, now 32 years old, stands at the peak of his powers—not just as one of the best goalkeepers of his generation, but as a symbol of consistency, calmness, and elite professionalism.
From his early days as a promising youth keeper in Slovenia to becoming the longtime captain of Atlético Madrid and a national hero, Oblak’s journey is a masterclass in quiet excellence.
Then: The Humble Beginnings – A Goalkeeper Forged in Silence (1993–2014)
1. Early Life and Roots in Slovenia
Born on January 7, 1993, in Škofja Loka, Slovenia, Jan Oblak grew up in a modest household where discipline and humility were valued. His football journey began at age six with NK Ljubljana, but it was clear early on that his destiny lay between the posts.
A natural reflex saver with excellent positioning, Oblak quickly stood out in youth tournaments. By 15, he joined NK Domžale’s academy, Slovenia’s top developmental club at the time. At 17, he made his senior professional debut—becoming the youngest goalkeeper in Slovenian PrvaLiga history.
2. Rise in Slovenia and Move to Benfica
Over three seasons at Domžale, Jan Oblak made 78 appearances, earning a reputation for commanding presence, shot-stopping brilliance, and maturity beyond his years. His performances attracted interest from top European clubs.
In 2010, at just 17, he signed with SL Benfica—one of Europe’s most prestigious clubs. However, he was loaned back to Domžale for development, then spent two seasons (2012–2014) on loan at Belenenses in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, where he gained vital first-team experience.
Despite not being a regular starter at Benfica, his potential was undeniable.
Related: Manuel Neuer Then and Now
The Rise: Becoming Atlético Madrid’s Last Line of Defense (2014–2020)
1. A Surprise Move to Madrid
In July 2014, Atlético Madrid—under legendary manager Diego Simeone—signed Jan Oblak from Benfica for €16 million, a significant fee for a 21-year-old goalkeeper with limited top-flight experience. He was brought in to replace the departing Thibaut Courtois.
Few expected him to adapt so quickly. But Oblak did more than adapt—he dominated.
2. Immediate Impact and Golden Glove Dominance
In his debut season (2014–15), Oblak:
- Kept 18 clean sheets in La Liga
- Won the Ricardo Zamora Trophy (awarded to La Liga’s best goalkeeper)
- Became a cornerstone of Simeone’s defensive fortress
Over the next decade, he would win the Zamora Trophy a record-tying six times (2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2023), matching the legendary Antonio Ramallets.
His style was defined by:
- Elite positioning and anticipation
- Lightning-fast reflexes
- Calmness under pressure
- Command of the penalty area
- Rare errors – earning the nickname “The Human Wall”
3. Key Role in Atlético’s Golden Era
Jan Oblak played a pivotal role in Atlético’s success:
- UEFA Champions League finalist (2016)
- UEFA Europa League winner (2018)
- UEFA Super Cup winner (2018, 2022)
- Copa del Rey winner (2013 not with him, but consistent deep runs post-2015)
He became vice-captain in 2020 and was named club captain in 2023, succeeding Koke—making him the first foreign-born captain in Atlético Madrid’s history.
Related: Alisson Becker Then and Now
Now: Captain, Legend, and Still the Best (2021–2025)
1. Leadership in a New Era
By 2025, Oblak is no longer just a goalkeeper—he is the heart and soul of Atlético Madrid. With the retirements of legends like Diego Godín and the departure of Antoine Griezmann, Oblak has become the last remaining link to Atlético’s golden generation.
As captain, he leads with quiet authority, mentoring young players like Ivo Grbić and Alexander Dimitrovski, while maintaining world-class standards himself.
2. Continued Excellence in La Liga and Europe
Despite advancing age, Oblak has defied the decline typical of goalkeepers in their 30s:
- 2023–24 Season: 19 clean sheets in 36 La Liga games
- 2024–25 Season (as of spring 2025): Still averaging over 3 saves per game, with multiple “Man of the Match” performances
- Crucial penalty saves in Champions League knockout stages, including a decisive stop against Kylian Mbappé in the 2024 quarterfinals
His clean sheet ratio remains among the best in Europe—proving that experience, intelligence, and preparation can extend elite performance.
3. Tactical Evolution Under Diego Simeone
As Atlético transitioned into a slightly more possession-based style under Simeone’s later years, Oblak adapted:
- Improved distribution and footwork
- Became a sweeper-keeper when needed
- Excelled in high-line defenses and one-on-one breakaways
His ability to read the game allows him to cut out through balls before they happen, making him as much a defender as a goalkeeper.
4. Ballon d’Or Recognition and Global Respect
Though goalkeepers rarely win the Ballon d’Or, Jan Oblak has consistently ranked among the top 10–20 in voting throughout the 2010s and early 2020s. In 2025, he is widely regarded as:
- The best goalkeeper in La Liga
- Among the top 3 active goalkeepers in the world (alongside Alisson Becker and Manuel Neuer)
- A legend in the making for both club and country
Related: Ederson Then and Now
International Career: Slovenia’s Immovable Wall
1. National Team Stalwart
Since his senior debut in 2012, Jan Oblak has been the undisputed No. 1 for Slovenia, earning over 80 caps. He has carried the national team through multiple Euro and World Cup qualifying campaigns.
In 2024, he led Slovenia to their first major tournament in 24 years—UEFA Euro 2024—where they stunned the world by advancing from a tough group featuring Denmark, Serbia, and England.
Though eliminated in the Round of 16, Oblak’s performances—especially a heroic double save against Harry Kane—earned global acclaim.
2. Symbol of National Pride
In Slovenia, a nation of just 2 million, Oblak is more than a footballer—he is a national icon. Schools teach his story, murals of him cover city walls, and he’s often called “Slovenia’s greatest athlete.”
He uses his platform to support:
- Youth sports development
- Mental health awareness
- Anti-racism campaigns in football
Personal Life and Legacy Off the Pitch
Oblak is famously private and humble. Married to Urška Oblak, a Slovenian fitness instructor, the couple has two children. They split time between Madrid and Ljubljana, maintaining strong ties to his homeland.
Known for his disciplined lifestyle—early bedtimes, strict diet, meticulous film study—he embodies the professionalism that has defined his career.
Unlike many modern stars, Oblak avoids social media drama, flashy cars, and celebrity culture. His focus remains on one clean sheet at a time.
Cultural Impact and Legacy (In 2025)
By 2025, Jan Oblak’s legacy is secure:
- Atlético Madrid’s all-time leader in clean sheets (over 180)
- Most Zamora Trophies in history (6, tied)
- Only goalkeeper in La Liga history with 10+ seasons of 15+ clean sheets
- Captain of a European giant
- National hero of Slovenia
He has redefined what it means to be a modern goalkeeper—not reliant on theatrics, but on consistency, intelligence, and leadership.
Moreover, he has proven that greatness doesn’t require noise. In an era of social media, hype, and flash, Oblak’s legacy is built on silence—the quiet before the save, the calm before the storm.
Related: Christian Pulisic Then and Now
Conclusion: Jan Oblak – Then and Now (In 2025)
- Then: A 21-year-old Slovenian with a quiet demeanor, stepping into the unknown at Atlético Madrid, replacing a legend.
- Now: A 32-year-old captain, six-time Zamora winner, European champion contender, and one of the most respected goalkeepers in football history.
Jan Oblak’s journey is a testament to preparation, perseverance, and quiet confidence. He didn’t seek the spotlight—he earned it, one save, one season, one shutout at a time.
As he enters the final years of his career, one truth remains:
When the ball is in the air, the crowd holds its breath.
And Jan Oblak?
He’s already there.
🧤 “I don’t need to be loud. My gloves speak for me.” – Jan Oblak
Related: Angelo Ogbonna Then and Now