Arjen Robben

About

Arjen Robben is a former Dutch professional footballer who is widely regarded as one of the most talented attackers of his generation. Known for his exceptional dribbling skills, pace, and deadly finishing ability, Robben has enjoyed a highly successful career at both club and international levels, winning numerous trophies and accolades along the way. Despite injury setbacks, Robben’s unwavering determination and desire to succeed have seen him overcome adversity and cement his status as a true footballing great.

In this article, we will take a closer look at Arjen Robben’s fascinating career and explore what made him such a special player.

1. Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Introduction

Arjen Robben is a retired Dutch footballer who made a name for himself in the Bundesliga and the Netherlands national team. Known for his speed, dribbling skills, and deadly left foot, Robben was a nightmare for defenders on the pitch.

Early Life and Background

Born on January 23, 1984, in Bedum, Netherlands, Robben grew up playing football with his older brother. He developed his skills at local club VV Bedum before moving to FC Groningen’s youth academy at the age of 12.

Joining Groningen and Breakthrough Season

Robben made his professional debut for Groningen in the 2000-01 season, where he impressed with his pace and technical ability. He scored his first goal for the club against NAC Breda in November 2001, and his performances earned him a move to PSV Eindhoven in 2002.

Move to PSV Eindhoven

At PSV, Robben was an instant success, scoring 12 goals in 33 appearances in his first season. He won the Eredivisie title with PSV in his first two seasons at the club and was named Dutch Football Talent of the Year in 2003. His performances caught the eye of bigger clubs, and he moved to Chelsea for a fee of £12 million in 2004.

2. Career Highlights and Achievements

Introduction

Robben had a decorated career, winning numerous titles and individual awards. He played for some of the biggest clubs in Europe, including Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich.

Bundesliga Success with Bayern Munich

Robben had his most successful spell with Bayern Munich, where he won a total of eight Bundesliga titles and the Champions League trophy in 2013. He scored over 140 goals in 309 appearances for the club and was named German Footballer of the Year in 2010.

Champions League Triumphs

Robben played a crucial role in Bayern Munich’s Champions League success in 2013, scoring the winning goal in the final against Borussia Dortmund. He also reached the final of the competition twice with Chelsea and once with Bayern Munich.

National Team Honours

Robben was an important player for the Netherlands national team, helping them reach the World Cup final in 2010 and finishing third in the 2014 tournament. He scored 37 goals in 96 appearances for the national team.

3. Playing Style and Unique Skills

Introduction

Robben was known for his speed, dribbling skills, and precision with his left foot. He had a unique playing style that made him one of the most difficult wingers to defend against.

Dribbling and Ball Control

Robben had excellent dribbling skills and could beat defenders with ease. He had a low center of gravity, which allowed him to change direction quickly and create space for himself. His ball control was also outstanding, as he could keep the ball close to his feet while running at full speed.

Cutting Inside and Shooting

Robben’s signature move was cutting inside from the right wing onto his left foot and taking a shot at the goal. Defenders knew what was coming, but they still couldn’t stop him. He was deadly accurate with his left foot and could score from almost any angle.

Free-Kick Skills

Robben was also an excellent free-kick taker. He had a powerful left foot and could bend the ball around the wall with precision. His free-kicks often resulted in goals or dangerous scoring opportunities.

4. Injury Struggles and Comebacks

Introduction

Robben’s career was not without its setbacks, as he suffered several injuries throughout his career. However, he always came back stronger and continued to play at a high level.

Early Injuries and Setbacks

Robben suffered his first significant injury while playing for Chelsea in 2006, which kept him out of action for two months. He suffered several more injuries throughout his career, including muscle strains, thigh injuries, and ankle sprains.

2010 World Cup Final Injury

Robben’s most infamous injury came during the 2010 World Cup final against Spain. He had a chance to give the Netherlands the lead in the second half, but his shot was saved by the Spanish goalkeeper. He later revealed that he had been playing with a hamstring injury and was not at 100% during the game.

Return to Action and Further Injuries

Robben continued to play at the highest level despite his injuries. He returned to Bayern Munich after the 2010 World Cup and won numerous titles with the club. However, injuries continued to plague him, and he retired from football in 2019 due to persistent fitness issues.

5. Memorable Moments and Iconic Goals

Introduction

Arjen Robben is known for his electric pace, incredible dribbling skills, and ability to score incredible goals. Throughout his career, he has produced many memorable moments and iconic goals that will be remembered for years to come.

Winning Goals in Major Finals

Robben is a player who has consistently demonstrated his ability to rise to the occasion in big games. He has scored several winning goals in major finals, including the 2013 UEFA Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund and the 2014 FIFA World Cup final against Argentina.

Spectacular Solo Efforts

Robben is also known for his spectacular solo efforts, where he takes on multiple defenders and scores amazing goals. One of his most memorable solo efforts came in the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where he scored a stunning goal against Spain in the final.

International Goals and Moments

Robben has also produced many memorable moments for the Netherlands national team. He has scored several important goals in major tournaments, including the winner against Chile at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Additionally, he was a key part of the Netherlands team that made it to the 2010 FIFA World Cup final and the 2014 FIFA World Cup semifinals.

6. National Team Career and Contributions

Introduction

Arjen Robben had a successful international career with the Netherlands national team, where he played a crucial role in their success over the years.

Early National Team Call-ups

Robben made his international debut for the Netherlands in 2003 and quickly established himself as a key player for the team. He played a crucial role in helping the Netherlands qualify for the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

Key Contributions to Netherlands’ Success

Throughout his international career, Robben made many key contributions to the Netherlands’ success. He was an important part of the team that made it to the final of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the semifinals of the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Retirement from International Football

Robben announced his retirement from international football in 2017, after making 96 appearances for the Netherlands national team. His contributions to the team will be remembered for years to come.

7. Retirement and Legacy

Introduction

After a successful career spanning more than two decades, Arjen Robben announced his retirement from professional football in 2019.

Retirement Announcement and Reasons

Robben announced his retirement from football in July 2019. He cited his desire to spend more time with his family and the toll that injuries had taken on his body as the reasons behind his decision.

Legacy and Impact on the Game

Arjen Robben’s legacy as one of the greatest wingers in football history is secure. He won numerous titles throughout his career with clubs such as Bayern Munich, Chelsea and Real Madrid. Robben’s incredible dribbling skills and ability to score spectacular goals will be remembered by fans for many years to come.

8. Personal Life and Interests

Introduction

Outside of football, Arjen Robben has several interests and hobbies that he enjoys.

Family Life and Relationships

Robben is married to Bernadien Eillert and has three children. He is known to be a family man and spends much of his free time with his wife and children.

Interests and Hobbies Outside Football

Robben is a keen golfer and enjoys spending time on the golf course. He is also interested in horse breeding and has a farm in the Netherlands where he breeds horses. Additionally, he is a fan of Formula 1 racing and enjoys attending races when he has the opportunity.In conclusion, Arjen Robben’s remarkable career is a testament to his immense talent, hard work, and perseverance. He has thrilled fans around the world with his breathtaking skills and unforgettable moments on the pitch. Robben will always be remembered as one of the greatest wingers in the history of the game and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of footballers.

FAQ

What honours did Arjen Robben win throughout his career?

Arjen Robben won numerous honours throughout his career, including eight Bundesliga titles, five Dutch Eredivisie titles, two English Premier League titles, one Spanish La Liga title, and one Italian Serie A title. He also won the UEFA Champions League with Bayern Munich in 2013 and 2020, as well as the Dutch Cup, DFB-Pokal, and FIFA Club World Cup.

What were Arjen Robben’s most memorable moments on the pitch?

Arjen Robben had many memorable moments during his career, including his stunning solo goal in the 2013 Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund, his winning goal in the 2010 World Cup quarter-finals against Brazil, and his late winner in the 2019 DFB-Pokal final against RB Leipzig. Robben also scored many spectacular goals throughout his career, often cutting in from the right wing and unleashing a left-footed shot into the top corner.

What was Arjen Robben’s playing style like?

Arjen Robben was known for his exceptional dribbling skills, pace, and ability to cut inside from the right wing and shoot with his left foot. He was also a free-kick specialist and had a keen eye for goal. Robben’s playing style was characterized by his directness and willingness to take on defenders, often leaving them chasing shadows with his lightning-fast footwork.

What is Arjen Robben doing now that he has retired from football?

Since retiring from football in 2019, Arjen Robben has been spending time with his family and pursuing his interests outside the game. He has expressed an interest in coaching and has also been involved in various charitable initiatives.”

Last Updated: 2nd April 2023