Arjen Robben

Arjen Robben is a Dutch professional footballer, born on January 23, 1984, in Bedum, Netherlands. He is widely regarded as one of the best wingers of his generation. Robben started his professional career with FC Groningen before moving to PSV Eindhoven in 2002, where he won an Eredivisie title. He then had successful stints at Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich.

Robben is known for his speed, dribbling skills, left-footed shots from the right wing, and his precise crossing ability. He has won numerous individual awards and holds multiple club records. Off the field, Robben is also recognized for his sportsmanship and influence, inspiring many aspiring footballers worldwide.

FC Groningen

• Youth and Early Career: Robben was born and raised in Bedum and joined FC Groningen's youth academy. He made his first-team debut for Groningen in 2000.

PSV Eindhoven

• Early Success: Robben signed with PSV in 2002 and helped the team win the Eredivisie title in his first season.

Chelsea

• English Football: In 2004, Robben moved to Chelsea. He won two Premier League titles, a FA Cup, and two League Cups with the club.

Real Madrid

• Spanish Adventure: Robben signed for Real Madrid in 2007. He won a La Liga title during his two-year stint at the club.

Bayern Munich

• Peak of Career: Robben joined Bayern Munich in 2009 and had the most successful spell of his career. He won numerous Bundesliga titles, DFB-Pokal titles, and a UEFA Champions League title.

Return to FC Groningen

• Later Career: In 2020, Robben made a surprise return to FC Groningen, the club where it all started for him.

Netherlands National Team

• Debut: Made his debut for Netherlands in 2003.

Achievements:

• FIFA World Cup: Runner-up in 2010.
• UEFA European Championship: Semi-finalist in 2004.
• Robben is one of Netherlands' top scorers and has made over 90 appearances for the national team.

• Position: Primarily a winger, but also excels as a forward.
• Skills: Known for his electrifying speed, exceptional dribbling skills, and precise left-footed shots from the right wing. Robben is celebrated for his crossing ability, shooting accuracy, and versatility.

• Family: Robben is married to Bernadien Eillert and has three children.
• Sportsmanship: Robben is known for his sportsmanship and fair play, earning respect from teammates and opponents alike.

• Arjen Robben is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous club successes but also for his sportsmanship, determination, and longevity in professional football. His impact on the sport and his status as an icon extend beyond the pitch, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

Most Goals for Bayern Munich by a Foreign Player:

• Over 100 goals

Most Appearances and Goals in UEFA Champions League for Bayern Munich:

• Over 50 goals and 100 appearances

Most Goals for Netherlands in FIFA World Cup:

• 6 goals

Books

• Van Egmond, M. (2019) Arjen Robben: Inside the Mind of a Winner. Amsterdam: Carrera.
• Kuper, S. (2014) The Football Men: Up Close with the Giants of the Modern Game. London: Simon & Schuster.

Websites

• FIFA: Information about Arjen Robben’s international career and achievements. Available at: https://www.fifa.com
• Bayern Munich: Details about Robben’s career at Bayern Munich. Available at: https://fcbayern.com
• UEFA: Updates and records of Robben in UEFA competitions. Available at: https://www.uefa.com

Articles

• BBC Sport: Arjen Robben: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football
• The Guardian: Arjen Robben’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/football/arjen-robben

Interviews and Documentaries

• Arjen Robben: Mr Wembley (2013): Directed by Hauke Wendler. This documentary provides a detailed look at Robben’s life and career, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.
• ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Arjen Robben, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.espn.com