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Osman Mema
Osman Mema (2 July 1939 – 25 September 2023)[1] was an Albanian professional footballer who played as a midfielder. He is one of the most decorated players in the history of Albanian football, having won the Albanian National Championship seven times. Club careerMema, like the rest of his siblings, was a product of 17 Nëntori Academy, earning his promotion in 1958 after winning two consecutive championships.[2] Soon after that, he was called for the military service and joined the country's army team Partizani.[2] Mema enjoyed great success there, playing with footballers such as Refik Resmja and Panajot Pano, winning the championship three times and the Republic Cup twice.[2] In 1965, at his father's request, Mema, who at that time was Partizani's most paid player, made a sensational return to 17 Nëntori winning four championships, where he stayed until 1971, the year in which he decided to end his career.[2] He was able to play with his brother Ali in his second spell, helping the club to win three more league titles.[2] Style of playIn his prime, Mema was noted for his acceleration, speed, stamina and work rate. He played as a defensive midfielder, but nevertheless he also tended to make runs forward, which also made him an attacking threat.[2] Personal lifeOsman was part of Mema dynasty,[3] a family which has produced several footballers throughout the years.[4] His brothers Haxhi and Ali were both footballers, as well as his nephew and Haxhi's son Sulejman, and Ali's son Ardian, who was also a footballer who played mostly for Tirana and is currently its coach.[5] Osman Mema died on 25 September 2023, at the age of 84.[6] References
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