1. FC Union Berlin have strengthened their defensive options for the Bundesliga season with the signing of the vastly-experienced Neven Subotic.

Born in Banja Luka (now Bosnia), Subotic moved to Germany in 1990 and started his football career as a kid. In 1999, Neven and his family emigrated to the United States where he continued to develop and play at various levels. After a spell at the University of South Florida, Subotic returned to Germany to push himself at the highest level. He joined Mainz in 2006 and eventually became a key player under Jürgen Klopp, now coach of Liverpool. Once Klopp moved to Borussia Dortmund, Subotic followed and enjoyed the most successful period of his career. He won two league championships and inspired his team to the UEFA Champions League final at Wembley in 2013. The Serbian international pulled on the colours of 1. FC Köln before most recently playing for historic French club Saint-Etienne, where he made 44 appearances. 

"I have great desire for this adventure with Union. I have known the Bundesliga for many years and I'm sure that 1. FC Union Berlin will do well in this league. With Borussia Dortmund, I was already a visitor at the anniversary match in January 2016 and remember with pleasure a very atmospheric evening back then. Of course, I also saw the outstanding pictures of the promotion in May. Now I'm looking forward to becoming part of this club myself and to contributing my share to a successful Bundesliga season," said 30-year-old Subotic upon his arrival in Berlin.

"Neven Subotic is an exceptional player who has proven his class in over 300 professional games at the highest level. I'm delighted that we have the opportunity to bring such an experienced player and I'm sure that he can lead and advance the team on and off the pitch," added Oliver Ruhnert, 1. FC Union Berlin's Director for Professional Football.

Subotic's contract in Köpenick runs until 2021 and is valid for both Bundesliga & 2.Bundesliga competitions.