Dutch · Utrecht · Born 31 October 1964Marco van Basten was born in Utrecht in 1964 and became, during the seven seasons of his peak, the most complete centre-forward in the history of the game.
Marco van Basten was born in Utrecht in 1964 and joined Ajax at 16, scoring 152 goals in 133 Eredivisie appearances before moving to AC Milan in 1987. His Ajax career (1981–1987) produced 3 Eredivisie titles. At Milan (1987–1995) he won 2 European Cups, 3 Serie A titles and scored 90 goals in 147 appearances. He earned 58 Netherlands caps scoring 24 goals — including his impossible-angle volley in the Euro 1988 final against the Soviet Union, voted one of the greatest goals in the tournament's history. He won the Ballon d'Or in 1988, 1989 and 1992. His top speed of 31.5 km/h and 10.6 km per game reflected a centre-forward of extraordinary athleticism. He scored 376 goals in just 478 career appearances — a ratio of 0.79 goals per game that ranks among the finest ever recorded at top-level European football. His career was ended prematurely at 30 by severe ankle injuries stemming from a foul sustained in 1987. He managed the Netherlands national team from 2004–2008, taking them to the Euro 2008 quarter-final.
Spectacular volley goal in Euro 1988 final against USSR
How They Played
Clinical finisher with exceptional technique, aerial ability and intelligent positioning
Lasting Impact
Regarded as one of the most complete strikers ever, career cut short by ankle injury
Career Honours
- European Cup 1989, 1990 (Milan)
- European Championship 1988 (Netherlands)
- Ballon d'Or 1988, 1989, 1992
- Serie A 1988, 1992, 1993
- Eredivisie 3x (Ajax)
- UEFA Cup 1992
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ajax | 1981–1987 | 133 | 128 | #9 |
| AC Milan | 1987–1995 | 143 | 58 | #9 |
 Netherlands | — | 58 | 24 | — |
Dutch Athletes