Marián Čišovský (1979–2020), Slovak football defender
Biography of Marián Čišovský, a Slovak central defender known for his time at Viktoria Plzeň, notable Europa League moments, and his battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Marián Čišovský (2 November 1979 – 28 June 2020) was a Slovak professional footballer best known as a central defender. During a career that spanned domestic and international clubs, he earned recognition for his aerial strength, reading of the game and leadership at the back. He represented Slovak football at club level and was selected for the Slovakia national team during his playing years.
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Playing style and role
Čišovský was typically deployed as a centre-back. Observers and teammates regarded him as a physically imposing defender who could defend set pieces effectively and contribute occasional goals from headers or late runs. He combined focused positional play with an ability to marshal a defensive line, traits that made him a reliable presence in league and European matches.
Club career and notable matches
He spent much of his professional career with clubs in Slovakia and the neighbouring Czech Republic, including a spell with Viktoria Plzeň. In European competition he produced memorable contributions: on 5 August 2010 he scored a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser in a Europa League qualification tie against MyPa, converting in the 93rd minute to make the score 3–3. He also found the net in a 2–0 victory over Oţelul Galaţi in the same continental campaign. Further details on his club appearances and statistics are available in contemporary player profiles and databases (career overview).
Illness, retirement and legacy
In 2011 Čišovský was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurological disease. The diagnosis effectively ended his professional playing career and he spent subsequent years away from the pitch while confronting the illness. His struggle drew attention from the football community in Slovakia and beyond, prompting public expressions of support from clubs, teammates and fans. Many remembered him not only for his performances on the field but also for his courage off it.
Remembering Čišovský
Čišovský died from complications of ALS on 28 June 2020 at the age of 40. Tributes highlighted his sporting achievements and his dignity in facing illness. For summaries of his time at Viktoria Plzeň and match reports from the European ties, see the club pages and competition archives (Viktoria Plzeň information).
- Position: Central defender
- Notable competitions: Domestic leagues and UEFA Europa League qualifiers
- Illness: Diagnosed with ALS in 2011; passed away in 2020
Author
AlegsaOnline.com Marián Čišovský (1979–2020), Slovak football defender Leandro Alegsa
URL: https://en.alegsaonline.com/art/142190