Frank Rijkaard

Considered as one of the best defensive midfielders in history, Frank Rijkaard could play in any midfield position.

He started his career in the Dutch club Ajax Amsterdam in 1978, then he moved to Real Zaragoza and then, of course, to AC Milan. Later, he finished his career in Ajax Amsterdam.

He played in the 1990 and 1994 World Cups and in the 1998 European Championship.

His personals awards includes a 'Dutch Player of the Year' award in 1988 and a medal for merits gifted to him by queen Beatrix.


He made his international debut in 1981, on the 1st of September, in a match which opposed the Netherlands against Switzerland. He collected a total of 73 caps for the national team.

Rijkaard formed with another two Dutchmen, Gullit and van Basten, the three Dutchmen trio who played in AC Milan at the end of the 80's and at the beggining of the 90's.

As a coach, he managed to play a semi-final vs. Italy with the Netherlands national team in Euro 2000. The Netherlands lost on penalties after a dramatic game, the Dutch missing two penalty kicks in the first 90 minutes, and the Italians playing most of the game with 10 men. Imediately after the match, Rijkaard resigned.

Trophies won:
::5 x Dutch title
::3 x Dutch cup
::2 x Italian title
::1 x Cup Winners Cup
::3 x European Cup
::3 x European Super Cup
::3 x Intercontinental Cup
::1 x European tournament
::1 x Dutch Player of the Year
::1 x Medal of Merits for Holland