Hannover 96 legend
Altin Lala is celebrating a big birthday
November 18, 2025 – 2:23 p.mReading time: 2 minutes
Altin Lala, former Hannover 96 captain, turned 50 on Tuesday. His career was characterized by exceptional club loyalty and passion.
Former 96 captain Altin Lala is celebrating a milestone birthday: The Albanian, who moved from Borussia Fulda to Hannover 96 in 1998, turned 50 on November 18th. He dedicated his entire professional career to the club.
In 14 years, the “kampfzwerg” played 320 competitive games and always remained loyal to the club. “I would do it the same way again,” said Lala, who continues to live in Hanover and follows the team closely. He was a captain, was considered a crowd favorite and an identification figure.
Lala came to Hanover in 1998 when the club was playing in the 2nd Bundesliga. Four years later, Lala was promoted to the Bundesliga, which, according to the club’s statement, was one of the best moments of his career. He remained a fixture in the team until 2012. He scored his only Bundesliga goal in a 5-0 home win against Hertha BSC in 2007.
When Lala ended his career, fans saw him off with impressive choreography. The words “1998 – 2012” and “Thank you Altin” were emblazoned across the entire west and north curves, accompanied by his shirt number 8 and the colors of Hannover 96 and Albania.
Lala is currently active as a football expert. Recently at a game between the Albanian national team and England. He also follows Hannover 96 closely. “The coach is doing a great job,” says Lala. He is particularly pleased with Enzo Leopold, the current captain, who wears Lala’s former number 8. “He’s a great boy and does a really good job,” praises Lala.