Former Netherlands and Bayern Munich winger Arjen Robben has died following complications from a chronic respiratory illness after years of health struggles, his family announced in a sudden and emotional statement. He was 41.
Robben, widely regarded as one of the greatest wingers of his generation, had faced recurring health problems throughout his professional career. Known for his blistering pace, trademark left-footed cut-ins, and decisive goals, Robben’s brilliance on the field often stood in sharp contrast to the physical setbacks that plagued him.
Born in Bedum, the Netherlands, in 1984, Robben rose to prominence with FC Groningen before moving to PSV Eindhoven, where his dazzling dribbling and sharp eye for goal caught the attention of Europe’s elite clubs. His transfer to Chelsea in 2004 marked the beginning of a storied international career, as he became a key figure under José Mourinho and helped the club secure back-to-back Premier League titles.
In 2007, Robben signed for Real Madrid, where flashes of brilliance were interrupted by persistent injuries and bouts of illness. Though his time in Spain was short-lived, he left with a La Liga title before embarking on the most defining chapter of his career at Bayern Munich.It was in Bavaria that Robben cemented his place among football’s modern greats. Over a decade with the German giants, he won eight Bundesliga titles, five DFB-Pokals, and, most memorably, scored the winning goal in the 2013 UEFA Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund at Wembley. The image of Robben slotting the ball past Roman Weidenfeller in the dying minutes remains etched in football history.Despite his remarkable success, Robben’s career was repeatedly overshadowed by injuries and recurring respiratory and digestive issues. There were moments when doctors advised him to consider early retirement, yet his resilience and passion for the game always brought him back. Supporters often nicknamed him “The Glass Man” due to his fragility, but to many he was a symbol of perseverance and determination.
Internationally, Robben was a cornerstone of the Netherlands national team, earning 96 caps and scoring 37 goals. He played a crucial role in leading the Dutch to the 2010 FIFA World Cup final, where they narrowly lost to Spain, and again shone during the 2014 World Cup, guiding his country to a third-place finish.
Robben officially retired from professional football in 2019 but made a brief comeback in 2020 with his boyhood club, FC Groningen, in a final gesture of loyalty to his roots. Though injuries quickly curtailed his return, the decision highlighted his enduring love for the sport and his connection to the fans who had supported him since the beginning.
News of Robben’s passing has sent shockwaves through the football world. Tributes have poured in from former teammates, clubs, and fans across the globe. Bayern Munich described him as “a legend who embodied courage, class, and unyielding spirit,” while the Dutch FA praised him as “a player who gave everything for his country.”
As the football community mourns, the legacy of Arjen Robben will endure — not only in the trophies he lifted or the unforgettable goals he scored, but also in the way he overcame adversity and inspired millions with his relentless pursuit of excellence.
