A Dutch footballer and manager who played for clubs like PSV Eindhoven and coached teams like Groningen, known for his attacking style of play. He also worked as a football pundit and commentator.
Ernest Faber, a renowned Dutch professional football manager and former player, is best known for his phenomenal playing career with PSV Eindhoven, where he won four Eredivisie titles, a KNVB Cup, and four Johan Cruyff Shields. As a defender, Faber's exceptional skills on the field earned him a spot in the Netherlands national team, where he played one match in 1998.
Born on August 27, 1971, in Geldrop, Faber grew up in the Strijp neighborhood in Eindhoven, which also housed PSV's home ground, the Philips Stadion. Faber's passion for football began at a young age, and he started playing youth football at local amateur club DBS at just five years old.
Faber's impressive performances at DBS caught the attention of PSV scouts, and he joined the club at 13. Under the guidance of former defender and youth coach Huub Stevens, Faber transitioned from a right winger to a central defender, a position that would become synonymous with his name.
To gain first-team experience, PSV loaned Faber out to NEC in 1990. He made his professional debut on August 25, 1990, in a 2-1 away win against MVV. During his loan spell, Faber appeared in 30 league fixtures and three cup games, but NEC's season ended in 18th place and relegation.
Faber's next loan spell was with Sparta in 1991-1992, where he played 32 league fixtures. These loan spells proved instrumental in shaping Faber's career, allowing him to develop his skills and gain valuable experience.
Faber's breakthrough season with PSV Eindhoven arrived in 1996-1997, where he won his first Eredivisie title. This was followed by three more titles in 1999-2000, 2000-2001, and 2001-2002. Additionally, Faber won a KNVB Cup and four Johan Cruyff Shields during his time at PSV.
Despite facing injuries throughout his career, Faber's determination and perseverance earned him a spot in the Netherlands national team, where he played one match in 1998.
After retiring from professional football at 32 due to injuries, Faber transitioned to coaching. He worked at the PSV youth academy and later became an assistant coach and manager at FC Eindhoven. From 2011 until UEFA Euro 2012, Faber served as assistant manager for the Netherlands national team.
In 2012, Faber became assistant manager at PSV, where he remained until 2015. He then took on the role of manager at NEC, followed by a stint as manager at Groningen in 2016.
Faber's remarkable playing career, coupled with his coaching experience, has cemented his status as a Dutch football legend. His ability to adapt to different coaching roles and mentor young players has made him an invaluable asset to the football community.
As the technical director at A-League Men side Adelaide United, Faber continues to leave his mark on the sport, inspiring a new generation of footballers and coaches alike.
Ernest Faber's enduring legacy in Dutch football serves as a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and passion for the sport.
79 Years Old
A Dutch football legend who revolutionized the sport with his innovative style of play and coaching philosophy, credited with influencing generations of players and teams.
77 Years Old
A Dutch football legend who won 68 caps for the Netherlands and coached several teams, including Ajax and Egypt's national team, known for his versatility and tactical acumen.
79 Years Old
A Dutch football legend who played for PSV Eindhoven and the Netherlands national team, earning 22 caps and scoring 7 goals, and later managed several clubs.
78 Years Old
A Dutch footballer and coach who played for PSV Eindhoven and the Netherlands national team, and later managed several clubs including Feyenoord and Fortuna Sittard. He's known for his attacking style of play and developing young talent.
