Mihael Žaper Biography: Age, Net Worth, Height, Club, Salary, Croatia, Career, Stats

Mihael Žaper is a Croatian professional footballer who has gained recognition for his versatile midfield play and steady performances in Croatia’s top divisions.

He first made waves when scoring on his professional debut for NK Osijek at just 17 years old, and over time he established himself as a key presence in the Osijek side before moving to Hajduk Split.

Profile

• Full name: Mihael Žaper
• Date of birth: August 11, 1998
• Age: 27 years old
• Gender: Male
• Place of birth: Osijek, Croatia
• State of origin: Osijek-Baranja County
• Nationality: Croatian
• Profession: Footballer (Midfielder)
• Height: 1.88 m (6 ft 2 in)
• Weight: 76 kg (168 lbs)
• Eye color: Hazel brown
• Hair color: Light brown
• Parents: N/A
• Siblings: One younger sister
• Spouse: None
• Children: None
• Relationship status: Single
• Religion: Roman Catholic
• Ethnicity: Croatian (Slavic European)
• Net worth: €800,000 – €1 million

Early Life and Education

Mihael Žaper was born and raised in Osijek, eastern Croatia on August 11, 1998.

He displayed athletic promise from a young age, joining Olimpija Osijek at just 10 years old before moving to NK Osijek’s academy in 2010.

His technical development was heavily influenced by Osijek’s youth training philosophy, which emphasizes tactical discipline and game awareness.

Personal Life

Mihael Žaper is notably private about his personal life.

As of 2025, there are no confirmed details about romantic relationships or children.

Career

Club Career:

Mihael Žaper made his senior debut for NK Osijek on May 13, 2016, at age 17, scoring on debut in a 4–2 defeat to Inter Zaprešić — a rare feat that marked him as one of Croatia’s brightest young prospects.

He played for Osijek II in his early professional years before becoming a mainstay in the first team.

Between 2016 and 2023, Žaper made over 130 official appearances, scoring 18 goals and providing several assists in both domestic and European competitions.

In September 2023, Žaper transferred to HNK Hajduk Split, signing a multi-year contract.

Wearing jersey number 6, he has been deployed as a central and defensive midfielder.

During the 2025 season, he was loaned to NK Lokomotiva Zagreb for more consistent playtime, where he continues to impress with composure, passing accuracy, and leadership.

International Career:

Žaper represented Croatia U19 in 2016, moved up to the U21 national team between 2019–2021 (10 appearances, 1 goal), and participated in the 2021 UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

He later played for Croatia U23 in 2022.

Although not yet capped for the senior Croatian national team, Žaper remains on the radar of national selectors due to his consistent domestic performances.

Awards

• Croatian Football Federation Recognition (2018): Promising Young Midfielder Nominee
• NK Osijek Player of the Month (2019, 2021)
• Included in SofaScore Team of the Week (HNL, multiple seasons)

Net Worth

Mihael Žaper’s net worth is estimated between €800,000 and €1 million.

His earnings come primarily from: Professional football contracts, performance bonuses and appearance, sponsorships and brand partnerships etc.

Social Media

• Instagram: @mihaelzaper6