Gerhard Hanappi (16 February 1929 – 23 August 1980) was an Austrian football midfielder. He is regarded as one of the greatest Austrian footballers. One of the most highly regarded midfielders of his generation, Hanappi was nominally a goalscoring wing half, however his versatility allowed him to successfully play in almost all positions. Hanappi's technical abilities and creativity allowed him to play as an effective play-maker. He was also very intelligent with an excellent sense of anticipation which made him very useful in defensive duties, and also enabled him to make well timed runs in the box. This along with his accurate shot enabled him to be a prolific goalscorer, even once being league top scorer.
Club career
Hanappi started his career as midfielder at SC Wacker Wien. He debuted in the highest league in 1947. Then he went to Rapid Vienna where he played from 1950 till 1965. In this time Rapid won Austrian Championship title 7 times. He was captain of Rapid for seven years. In 1999 he was chosen in Rapid's Team of the Century.
International career
He made his debut for Austria at only 19 years in November 1948 against Sweden With the Austrian team heplayed at 1954 World Cup in Switzerland and at the 1958 World Cup. From 1955 on he was also captain of the national team.
His last international match was a September 1962 match against Czechoslovakia. He earned 93 caps, scoring 12 goals. It was the record until Anton Polster earned his 94th cap in June 1998.
Personal life
After his football career Hanappi worked as an architect. He planned the Weststadion in Vienna. After his death the stadium was renamed to Gerhard Hanappi Stadium. He died of cancer in 1980, aged only 51.
Honours
Club
Austrian Football Bundesliga (7): 1951, 1952, 1954, 1956, 1957, 1960, 1964 Austrian Cup (1): 1961 Mitropa Cup (1): 1951
International
FIFA World Cup Third Place: 1954