Markus Poom: Forging His Legacy in Estonian Football

Following in Legendary Footsteps

Markus Poom, a rising star in Estonian football, is carving his path despite growing up under the shadow of his father, Mart Poom—one of Estonia’s greatest footballers. As he embarks on his FIFA World Cup 26™ qualification journey, the talented midfielder opens up about his career ambitions, the pressures of living up to his father’s name, and his determination to help Estonia make history. Following in Legendary Footsteps Markus Poom, a rising star in Estonian football, is carving his path despite growing up under the shadow of his father, Mart Poom—one of Estonia’s greatest footballers. As he embarks on his FIFA World Cup 26™ qualification journey, the talented midfielder opens up about his career ambitions, the pressures of living up to his father’s name, and his determination to help Estonia make history.

Inspired by a Football Icon

Although Markus moved to Estonia at 11, his love for the national team was deeply ingrained. Watching his father excel as a goalkeeper in England for Derby County, Sunderland, and Arsenal left an indelible mark on him. Witnessing his father’s dedication to the Estonian national team truly inspired him.

“I always believed those games held the greatest significance,” Markus told FIFA. “My father pushed through injuries and gave his all for the team.”Estonia. Watching those games made me realize that’s the level I wanted to reach.”

Now at 25, Markus has proudly represented Estonia 29 times and is poised to play a key role in their World Cup qualification campaign.

Overcoming the Pressure of a Famous Surname

Being the son of a football legend brings its own set of challenges. Mart Poom earned 120 senior caps over a remarkable 17-year career, and Markus felt the weight of expectations.

“In some ways, it was tough,” he admitted. “Seeing him play in the Premier League felt normal as a kid. Now, looking back, I truly appreciate how special it was. There was some added pressure because of my surname, but I’ve learned to embrace it. This is my journey. He had his career, and now I’m writing my own story.”

Despite these expectations, Markus has thrived, becoming a powerful and energetic central midfielder. Unlike his father, he never had ambitions of playing in goal. “I preferred scoring against him instead of being in goal myself!” he laughed.

Club Success and a Career-Defining Moment

Markus plays for Flora Tallinn, where he has won four domestic championships. His two-year loan spell with Shamrock Rovers in Ireland further solidified his reputation, culminating in a league title in 2023.

However, his standout moment came in December 2024 during a Europa Conference League match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Scoring against the English giants in front of 3,000 travelling Rovers fans was a moment he will never forget.

“It was an emotional week,” he recalled. “My daughter, Matilde, arrived just a few days before that match. I thought we’d score at Stamford Bridge, but I never thought it would be me! Even though we lost, it’s a memory that will stay with me forever.”

A New Era for Flora Tallinn

Back in Tallinn, Markus is focused on regaining Flora’s league dominance. After securing the Meistriliiga title in 2022 and 2023, the club fell to a disappointing fourth-place finish last season. With a new coach, Estonian football legend Konstantin Vassiljev, Markus believes the team is ready for a fresh start.

“This year, we have a new identity,” he explained. “Vassiljev was a special player, and I think he can bring a unique vision as a coach. Our goal is to reclaim the league titles.”

Estonia’s World Cup Qualification Challenge

Estonia faces a difficult road in their bid to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 26™, with a group that includes Germany, Italy, Norway, Israel, and Moldova. Nevertheless, Markus remains optimistic.

“It’s a tough group, but we’re always the underdogs,” he said. “Facing top players shows us the level we aspire to reach. It’s a big challenge, but we embrace it. Hopefully, we can cause some upsets.”

National Team Evolution Under Jurgen Henn

Markus is particularly excited about Estonia’s new head coach, Jurgen Henn, who he previously worked with at Flora.

“He’s relentless,” Markus said. “Tactically, he’s brilliant and always eager to learn. That’s crucial for adapting to modern football. With so much young talent, his leadership is a perfect fit.”

A Father-Son Dynamic on the National Team

Adding to the unique nature of Markus’s footballing journey, his father now serves as Estonia’s goalkeeping coach. While their relationship remains professional within the team, their bond remains strong.

“There are boundaries we don’t cross,” Markus said. “It’s all business when training, but we still check on each other. With me playing abroad for the last couple of years, joining up with the national team has been a great way for us to reconnect.”

Writing His Legacy

Markus Poom’s football journey has come full circle in many ways. A memorable moment for him was playing against Belgium in 2021, where Arsenal legend Thierry Henry, whom Markus met as a child, was on the opposing coaching staff.

“I was starstruck,” he admitted “He recognized me from my childhood, and now I was representing Estonia. It was surreal.”

Mature, determined, and ambitious, Markus is eager to help Estonia achieve what has long been elusive—qualification for a major tournament.

“As a nation, that’s our ultimate goal,” he stated. “We’ve come close before but haven’t taken that next step. I truly believe we will. Every qualifying campaign is a fresh opportunity. Hopefully, we can make history.”

With his relentless drive and passion, Markus Poom is ready to make his mark on Estonian football history.