Michael Ballack is a retired German footballer, widely regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation. Born on September 26, 1976, in Görlitz, Germany, he played for several top clubs, including Bayer Leverkusen, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich. Ballack was known for his powerful shots, excellent passing, and leadership on the field. He had a successful international career with the German national team, earning over 98 caps and participating in multiple UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cups. Ballack was a key player in Germany's run to the 2002 World Cup final and the 2008 European Championship final, showcasing his talent on the world stage.