Dutch midfielder who played for clubs like Excelsior and NEC Nijmegen, earning over 200 appearances in the Eredivisie.
Ryan Koolwijk is a renowned professional football manager and former player, currently serving as the assistant coach of the Suriname national team. Born on August 8, 1985, in Rotterdam, Netherlands, Koolwijk has made a name for himself in the football world through his impressive playing career and transition into coaching.
Koolwijk began his senior career with Excelsior during the 2007-2008 season. He went on to play for several clubs, including NEC, Dordrecht, AS Trenčín, Almere City, and PEC Zwolle. His most notable stint was with AS Trenčín, where he became a regular in the team's starting eleven.
Despite being born in the Netherlands, Koolwijk represents the Suriname national team due to his Surinamese descent. He made his international debut in a 6-0 win over Bermuda in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification on June 4, 2021. He was also named to the Suriname squad for the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup.
In April 2020, Koolwijk ended his contract with AS Trenčín due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a proposed salary cut of over 50%. He subsequently signed with Almere City in May 2020. After a season, which ended with relegation to the 2022-2023 Eerste Divisie, Koolwijk announced his retirement from football and accepted a job offer as the assistant coach of the Suriname national team.
Although Koolwijk's coaching career is still in its early stages, his playing career was marked by several achievements, including representing Suriname in the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Ryan Koolwijk's journey from a professional footballer to a coach is an inspiration to many. His ability to adapt to new roles and challenges has made him a respected figure in the football community. As he continues to contribute to the sport in his new role, Koolwijk's legacy is sure to grow.
49 Years Old
A prolific goal-scorer and clinical finisher, known for his impressive strike rate and success with top European clubs. He later transitioned into management, taking the reins at PSV Eindhoven.
41 Years Old
A skilled and creative attacking midfielder who won numerous titles with Ajax, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan, and was a key player in the Netherlands' 2010 World Cup runner-up finish.
42 Years Old
A flying Dutchman on the pitch, known for his lightning-quick speed, precise ball control, and unstoppable left-footed shots that often found the back of the net. A winger with a knack for scoring crucial goals in big games.
42 Years Old
A prolific goal-scorer and skilled playmaker, known for his exceptional technique, vision, and goal-scoring ability, leading his teams to numerous titles and earning individual accolades.
45 Years Old
A prolific and versatile forward, known for his tireless work rate, versatility, and clutch performances, particularly in big games.
55 Years Old
Former Dutch midfielder and defender who played for Barcelona and the Netherlands national team, later becoming a manager, known for his creative playing style and tactical acumen.
53 Years Old
A dynamic and tenacious midfielder, known for his exceptional vision, passing range, and tireless work rate, earning him the nickname "The Pitbull."
51 Years Old
A Dutch football legend who played for top clubs like Arsenal and Barcelona, and later managed Rangers and the Netherlands national team, known for his attacking style and leadership on the pitch.
