The disappearance of former Hungary international footballer Ákos Buzsáky has sparked concern both in Hungary and England, where the midfielder spent much of his career. The 44-year-old has been reported missing by Hungarian authorities, while his former club Queens Park Rangers has said it is praying for his safe return.

Former QPR star reported missing

Buzsáky’s disappearance was first reported in Hungary on Tuesday by Blikk, when it emerged that police were searching for the former international as a missing person. His current whereabouts remain unknown, and reports suggest that even members of his family and people close to him have been unable to establish contact with him.

The news has now attracted attention in England, where Buzsáky is a familiar name to football supporters. The Sun and Daily Mail have both reported on the case, highlighting his time in English football and the concerns surrounding his disappearance.

Queens Park Rangers, one of Buzsáky’s former clubs, has also reacted to the news.

“The club are concerned to learn that R’s favourite Ákos Buzsáky has been reported missing. We’re all praying he’s found safe and well,” the club said.

From Porto success to English football

Buzsáky enjoyed an impressive playing career. After establishing himself at MTK and with Hungary’s Under-21 side, he moved abroad in 2002, joining Portuguese giants FC Porto. Although he struggled to establish himself in Porto’s first team, he was part of a hugely successful squad that won the Portuguese league and cup as well as the UEFA Cup.

He subsequently moved to England, initially joining Plymouth Argyle. Buzsáky quickly became a favourite with supporters, with then-manager Ian Holloway praising his creativity and ability to surprise opponents. In 2007, he moved to QPR, where he played in the Premier League as well as the Championship. He later represented Portsmouth and Barnsley before returning to Hungary and joining Ferencváros.

Persistent injuries eventually brought his playing career to an end in 2015.

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A difficult period after retirement

Buzsáky later moved into coaching, working as sporting director and manager at III. Kerületi TVE before subsequently taking charge of BVSC. However, his post-playing career was overshadowed by personal difficulties.

In previous interviews, the former footballer spoke openly about struggling to adjust to life after professional football and developing an addiction.

He explained that the end of his playing career had left him in a difficult psychological state and that he had eventually become dependent on one of the forms of addiction he had previously been able to keep away from.

Buzsáky also said that professional football had provided him with an extremely disciplined lifestyle and that, after leaving the game, he struggled to find the same sense of purpose and enjoyment.

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Business interests in Greece add to the questions

Reports have also emerged that Buzsáky had become involved in construction businesses in Greece in recent years. However, there is currently no confirmed information explaining why police are searching for him or what may have happened.

Buzsáky earned 20 caps for Hungary during his international career. His former clubs and fans are now hoping for news that the popular midfielder has been found safe.