Milan Baros, the former Czech striker who played a key role in Liverpool’s 2005 Champions League triumph, now looks strikingly different from his playing days after undergoing a major transformation. Known in the 2000s for his distinctive long hair and occasional soul patch, Baros has recently adopted a modern short back and sides haircut, along with a fuller beard. While die-hard Liverpool fans may still recognize the 42-year-old, younger fans might struggle to identify the Istanbul hero.
Baros joined Liverpool from Banik Ostrava in 2001, where he spent four seasons. Although his goal-scoring record—27 goals in 108 appearances—was not prolific, Baros was part of the legendary team that achieved one of the most remarkable comebacks in football history during the 2005 Champions League final. Rafa Benitez’s side famously overturned a 3-0 halftime deficit against an AC Milan team loaded with world-class talent, including Paolo Maldini, Andrea Pirlo, and Kaka.
During that fateful night in Istanbul, Baros started the match but was replaced by Djibril Cisse in the 85th minute, with Liverpool going on to win the final on penalties. He also played a part in the famous “ghost goal” against Chelsea in the semifinal. Baros raced behind the Chelsea defense, receiving a pass from Steven Gerrard and going one-on-one with goalkeeper Petr Cech. Although Baros couldn’t find the net, his effort led to Luis Garcia’s controversial goal, which sent Liverpool to the final, even though the ball never fully crossed the line.
Following his time at Anfield, Baros played for Aston Villa and Portsmouth in the Premier League. After leaving England, he continued his career across Europe before returning to Banik Ostrava, where he retired in 2020.
Today, Milan Baros looks far removed from his Liverpool days, but his place in the club’s storied history, particularly that night in Istanbul, remains unforgettable for fans.
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