Marco van Basten

Dutch football legend, celebrated striker for Ajax and AC Milan.

Chronology: 1964-10-31 – Present

Origins & Early Life

Marcel "Marco" van Basten (Dutch pronunciation: [ˈmɑrkoː vɑm ˈbɑstə(n)] ; born 31 October 1964) is a Dutch former football manager and player who played as a striker for Ajax and AC Milan, as well as the Netherlands national team. Regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, he scored over 300 goals at the highest club and international levels, but played his last game at the age of 28, followed by an early retirement at just 30, due to a recurring ankle injury and more than two years of unsuccessful treatment. He was later the head coach of Ajax and the Netherlands national team. Known for his close ball control, attacking intelligence, impeccable headers, and spectacular strikes and volleys, Van Basten was named FIFA World Player of the Year in 1992 and won the Ballon d'Or three times, in 1988, 1989 and 1992.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

At club level, he won three Eredivisie titles and the Cup Winners' Cup with Ajax, and four Serie A titles and two European Cups with Milan. With the Netherlands, Van Basten won UEFA Euro 1988 where he earned the Golden Boot, scoring five goals, including a memorable volley in the final against the Soviet Union, considered one of the best ever. In 1998, Van Basten was...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Source: Wikipedia