birtalan was one of the best players of his time and was named the world player of the year in 1974, 1976 and 1977. he spent most of his club career with steaua bucureşti, winning with them 12 romanian championships and the european champions cup in 1977. he also won the world title in 1970 and 1974, becoming the top scorer at the 1974 tournament with 43 goals. he participated in the 1972, 1976 and 1980 olympics winning one silver and bronze medals.