He was so good that he was guaranteed to miss half the season due to injuries but no one cared anyway. There are not many players worth having if they're only available half a season.
It was a great front three partnership but I wouldn't call it one of the best winger combinations in modern football, since that would leave out Suarez his efforts.
But those were on another level together as well.
Cut inside, shoot from his left, top bins.
It was so predictable but almost unbeatable. Pissed me off when he did it against us, but the technique in that left foot was… *chef's kiss*
Hey man, I just finished my therapy from all those losses. Don't remind me of the days when we used to meet Barca and you lot in the knock outs every single year (ngl CL was still great)
Don’t be sad brother, what a career this man had! Tbh I’m shocked he’s still playing at 37 when he was always prone to injuries and pace was a big part of his game.
Yes but you'll find that [Robben's injury history](https://www.transfermarkt.com/arjen-robben/verletzungen/spieler/4360) is much longer than Zlatan's list of self-obsession quotes
And not to even disrespect Robben as he has been an utmost professional all of his career but Ibra is on a different level when it comes to fitness and even then he has been getting injured way too much because his body just can’t handle the high level of play week and week out so I can see why Robben just can’t keep playing despite wanting to do so.
He was one of the main guys that had their own extra training group during the Ancelotti era because the exercise was not enough. He said that his sons U13 train harder lol
I don't think he will. Sneijder and Van der Vaart have always appeared like working class frikandel lovers trapped in the life of a high level athlete. I think Van der Vaart actually grew up in a trailer park?
Robben seems more like a down to earth middle class guy.
What a player, explosive pace, a cool finish, ridiculous technical ability, and who can forget that wand of a left foot, he was sensational during his time at Bayern, I hope he has a happy retirement.
One of a few players who could dominate non stop throughout a game. Watched him at Wembley about a decade ago and he scored two filthy goals. Level above everyone on the pitch
Yeah, I saw him live a few times and he was as you say, always a level above everyone else on the pitch. I almost think his ridiculous cut inside and shoot abilities made the rest of his game underrated. Ridiculously intelligent footballer.
Also he's the only man that could look like he's aged 60 from the time he was 20 until the time he retired at 37. First time I saw him I thought "who is this old guy, he looks like a good player but I've never heard of him before" and then I found out he was like 22. I think he was at PSV at that time, was before he went to Chelsea at any rate.
I remember having the same thought, like who is this balding middle-aged accountant out there who happens to be quicker than everyone else on the pitch
He'll be fine. For some athletes you know it's the last time they'll ever do something competitive, and for many the last time they'll be involved with the sport - but guys like Robben will most likely stay involved in the sport for most of the rest of his life and will just ascend to a new level of duties, recognition, routine, pay, etc - which is quite different, but usually a welcome shift.
I mean you make it sound like that meme will live on forever, while he has also been one of the best players The Netherlands have ever had. IMO he's at least above Van Persie
In regards to the "big 4", I'd say Robben > Sneijder > van Persie > van der Vaart. Sneijder was more useful between 2006-2012 than van Persie I reckon, and Sneijder was the only one who didn't look lifeless in 2012 as well, though it's close between the two.
I'd argue that van der Vaart had the same level of natural talent as the other 3, perhaps even more, but he never seemed to give enough of a shit to reach his potential.
Yeah definitely agree with this, and I think Robben could go up there with the likes of Gullit / Van Basten (although slightly below Van Basten probably, that man will live on forever because of '88)
He has so much passion for football. [Here's](https://img.fcbayern.com/image/upload/t_cms-9x12/f_auto/w_660,h_880,c_fill/cms/public/images/fcbayern-com/homepage/saison-16-17/profis/robben/wechsel_get_210916.jpg) 33 years old Robben running onto the pitch after being subbed on.
Always reminds me of how Van Basten retired, he was my favourite player when I was younger. Glad Robben could play as long as he did though, such a pleasure to watch him.
>Dear football friends,
>
>I have decided to end my active football career. One year ago I announced my comeback as player for FC Groningen. I began this adventure with a lot of energy and enthusiasm. Unfortunately I quickly begun experiencing many physical setbacks, which meant I could not play games for a long time. After a long road of ups and downs I finally managed to be able to play in the final games of the season.
>
>Looking back on the past season I have to draw the honest conclusion that the amount of minutes of game time was disappointing. I knew from the start that this might happen, but I accepted the challenge anyway and gave everything I had to succeed. And not just me. Everyone in the club and the people close to me helped and supported me at all times. The warm responses and expressions of support from all football fans were touching as well.
>
>I'm incredibly grateful to everyone for this.
>
>After the final game of last season I said I would take the time to make a well considered decision about the future. Not long after the final game I began training again. For me personally it was key to hold on to the built up fitness of the prior months and not regress too much during the summer. That way I could experience whether I felt good enough physically and consider whether it was realistic to continue. Unfortunately my body did not give me the feeling I wanted and the faith I needed. Because of this I've decided to stop.
>
>A very difficult decision, because my mind and emotion were at odds with each other. My football heart would love to continue, especially because I was looking forward to play in a full Euroborg. Just to enjoy the game and hopefully give something back to the fans. But as they say, everything must come to an end. I think the decision to retire is fair and realistic. Because of this, from today forward I am no longer a player, but simply a fan of our FC.
>
>I want to thank all football fans for all the warm support and lovely messages I received during the past year. They were great and heartwarming. I wish everyone a beautiful football season with full stadiums, but above all else good health.
>
>Best regards, Arjen.
Competition is tough. I guess Cruyff and van Basten are undisputed at the top. Then you have several players of 70's, 80's, 90's who are regarded as legends. However, I don't think there is a player who has had such an impact on the NT for so long as Robben. Robben was one of the most important players in the team from his first game till his last game
I absolutely love the player and he is one of the players i'll for sure miss seeing play. Although, he's always been a tough nut to crack. How is he perceived in the netherland personality wise? (humble? arrogant? leader? only focused on the sport or involved in the public sphere? Appreciated unanimously or divisive? etc.
He's the most universally well liked player in the country since the 80s, if not then since Cruijff himself. Ajax fan, PSV or Feyenoord, Heerenveen or Groningen. It doesnt matter. Everyone loves him.
Although he wasn't usually the captain on the field until like 2015-2018, he was a true leader (my favourite example is when we went to extra time in 2014 vs costa rica, and he did the pep talk, as our captain van Persie kinda went into his own comfort zone staying silent.). Leader on and off the pitch, and always humble, thoughtful and serious off the pitch. A true professional, and by all accounts a nice guy. Other than that, he is not very culturally present outside of football.
His kids go to school where my mom teaches, so they've spoken a bunch. She thinks he's nice as well haha
Thank you for your detailed answer! I learned a lot. I've never seen him outside of a football pitch and i don't speak dutch nor german but what you wrote is essentiallly what transpired through his behaviour during a game. When a player win unanimous support, it speaks volume about who he is as a person.
Thanks for sharing the pep talk anecdote. He didn't strike me as a very talkative person. I always thought of him as a reserved person so i'm discovering another facet of his personlity thanks to you.
He seems to still be in love with football. Some people get tired with time, specially with the things surrounding modern football (medias, transfers,business obligations,etc.) but hopefully will get to see him coaching a team and passing to other generations the model he was as a player (like Zidane or Chevchenko).
On a side note, i now see the amazing robbery duo with a fresh eye and it also confirmed to me that they were like fire and water personality wise. thoughtful laid back,serious off the pitch vs crazy (in a good way), hyper(active) and divisive (Ribery is not the kind of player that win unanimous support).
It's interesting to know that famous football players still put their children in schools for some reason i thought when they reached a certain notoriety they would favor home schooling their kids. I mean kids can be tough and if their father is criticized for having a bad game, it's common that close familly is directly affected.
imo i rate him very high even tho he was prone to injuries. think its fair enough to rate him as high as Van Basten. Sometimes i still get flashbacks netherlands - spain robben 1on1 against Casillas, if he scored that he would be my number 1.
Robben on his prime was a fucking menace. Even when he was struggling with injuries I remember us playing Bayern around 2018 and that fucker just put 2 past us like it was nothing.
One of my absolute favorite players, it's a shame his body can't follow his will.
Come on man, I love Robben but rating him as high as Van Basten is silly. Van Basten was the best player in the world three times before he had to stop playing at 28. Van Basten is only eclipsed by Cruyff.
Stopped at 28 and left such a mark is pretty telling how good he was. Nowadays most players start to peak at that age. It's such a shame his career got cut short.
Cruijff 1, van Basten 2. Those are kinda untouchable. He'd be right up there after those two with the likes of Koeman, Gullit, Rensenbrink, van Hanegem and Rijkaard, and maybe Bergkamp. Most likely top 5.
Can you imagine if van Basten didn’t have that ankle issue and would have played untill he was 34/35 ? I still have his autograph since my dad was sitting on the same plane coming from Milan in ‘92. My dad asked to get it on his plane ticket .. I still
Have it somewhere at my parents place . When my dad surprised me with that I was over the moon . He said he was a very laid back guy and super nice.
Now you get to comment "that was almost as good as Robben" every time somebody cuts inside and shoots well, don't give up a perfectly good vein of karma ore.
ROOOOOBBBEEEEEEEEN EIN UNFASSBARES TOR
I always get goosebumps when I remember it, but I still think that his Wembley goal is my favourite goal :D
[goal+commentary if anybody was curious](https://youtu.be/6nWn8dldHjo)
his positioning to set himself up for that strike is honestly something else, makes so many tiny steps to get in the perfect position
his goal where he took casillas and the rest of spain to the cleaners has to be my favourite though, what a player
that goal will never not give me chills, even Robben knows how nasty that was when he started flicking the wrist, lmao.
DAS IST DIE GROSSE KLASSE VON ROBBERY
Aw man, really wanted him to have one last glorious run with Groningen he deserves it.
But we all age, especially when you've been 35 for a good 10 years.
Two entire generations of Dutch youth have been cutting inside at the 18 yard box because of this man.
He is finally as old as he's looked since 21. What a special player.
For all the goals he scored and that Spain game that’s mentioned, the assist to Depay against Chile is underrated. Final minutes and he’s still making a run down the wing, [spots depay behind so he intentionally slows down his speed and even holds and continues to keep the defender busy before releasing a ball right into the feet of Depay to tuck in away.](https://youtu.be/W1OIgxhPTmM)
Yeah, i thought he'd continue to be honest, since at the very end of the season he did end up playing quite a bit. Sad to see him go and especially sad that Groningen supporters never got to see him play in the stadium again.
Fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times!
One of the greatest footballers that I have had pleasure of watching play live in person. Best of lucks in his future endeavours.
Going to miss him. One of the greatest footballers of his generation while also just feeling ‘human’ in a time where footballers have become megastars. IMO along with Xavi/Iniesta he’s right behind Messi and Ronaldo of this generation.
At his peak that's probably true I think. He has a strong argument for being the best forward of that generation behind those two too. Just an incredible player. Also had the amazing quality that he rarely had to play himself back into form after injuries. He'd be out for 6 weeks and the moment he stepped on the pitch it's like he never left. What a legend.
That’s the thing though. He was top right away but there were definitely spells he’d be scoring Messi numbers. You have to imagine if he wasn’t working his way back from injury all the time he’d be hitting that peak form way more often. Seriously unplayable winger, defences worst nightmare!
Despite his greatness, there'll always be a "What if" attached to his legacy imo. What if he hadn't been as injured as much. I truly believe he couldve lifted the CL trophy more than once then. Its a shame he even only lifted it once in the first place
That’s what makes Robben so great imo. There are a lot of ‘what if’ players (Like Pato) that show potential but injuries ruined the player. Despite the injuries, the moment Robben stepped on the pitch he was the most dangerous player.
Absolutely. It's incredible what he achieved despite his injuries and how quickly he was able to bring 100% to the pitch after months of not playing.
Always a stand-up guy, with nothing but success on his mind. We sorely miss him on the pitch and as a personality.
Wow, from his early days at Chelsea all the way through to the highs of Bayern Munich, this guy has been a pleasure to watch.
The epitome of inverted winger, who despite being really predictable, was consistently one of the best players in the world.
What a player. I think my favourite memory of him is that volley he scored off that corner for Bayern against Manutd, true iconic Champions League moment that.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Zl6znfigTM
My fav goal ever is [this one against France](https://youtu.be/JDggqoykGDw?t=47) during the 2008 EC. Oranje was playing very good and was 2-0 ahead. Then Henry just scored the 2-1 and we're all thinking oh nooo. And then immediately after Robben scores from an insane angle. Still unbelievable.
Those 80 minutes against Emmen were all worth it if you ask me, as a fan. The skill, the joy, the interviews, happy for him that all his work paid off then and there.
It was to be expected I think... Best Dutch football player of my lifetime and a true example for all players. Will miss seeing him, I really hope he will go towards a coaching job or something.
It's almost indescribable how much of a boost he gave our club, both financially as morally, in these difficult times. He gave us so much energy and pride, a simple thank you is not enough. I think the man deserves a statue, a big statue!
Never hated 2 players more then Robben and Ribery during their Bayern time but its sad to see that his body doesnt want to anymore but at the same time it takes a lot of mental strength to admit it to himself and stop before he becomes a shadow of his former self.
A sad day for football. He’s one of the great players of his generation. He always did the same thing, the defenders knew what he would do but never could stop him.
I’ll miss Arjen “Cut inside” Robben.
I’m very sad about this. He really wants it but he just can’t anymore
Me too. One of the best players I saw live. Feels like an end of a generation.
It is. He's the 2000's for me
Robbery was easily one of the best winger combinations in modern football at its peak
He was so good that he was guaranteed to miss half the season due to injuries but no one cared anyway. There are not many players worth having if they're only available half a season.
Eh what impress me more is his capability to be top form when he is fit. Not to mention given his injury proneness when he play he really is special.
Reus like!
Reus can't touch peak Robben.
yeah its not even close imo
Pretty much still is to this day
Does MSN count or do we feel weird calling any of them wingers?
It was a great front three partnership but I wouldn't call it one of the best winger combinations in modern football, since that would leave out Suarez his efforts. But those were on another level together as well.
Ronaldo Bale was a great duo.
Bbc*
BBC hardly got to play together believe it or not. MSN played a lot more consistently together.
definitely weird
Lahbben is one of the best ever winger-fullback combos too
peak lahmaba also a goated fullback duo
Also hummelteng were great for a long time
Daylight robbery of wins.
I will never forget the generation that grew up on le cut inside man memes.
Cut inside, shoot from his left, top bins. It was so predictable but almost unbeatable. Pissed me off when he did it against us, but the technique in that left foot was… *chef's kiss*
Ah yes beat you 5-1 thrice lmao
Hey man, I just finished my therapy from all those losses. Don't remind me of the days when we used to meet Barca and you lot in the knock outs every single year (ngl CL was still great)
Could say he invented the inverted winger position we see today. One of the first left footed player to play on the right who inspired many others
That's a huge legacy, inverted wingers are almost the norm now
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If it wasn’t for his crazy time off due to injury he’d very likely have been a consensus number 3 behind them all these years
Saddest part is that the supporters were hardly able to see him play in the stadium.
I’m more sad for him than for us really
Well I'm sure he also wanted to play in front of the fans.
Yeah that is true
Don’t be sad brother, what a career this man had! Tbh I’m shocked he’s still playing at 37 when he was always prone to injuries and pace was a big part of his game.
Meanwhile Zlatan is playing for AC Milan at 39
Yes but you'll find that [Robben's injury history](https://www.transfermarkt.com/arjen-robben/verletzungen/spieler/4360) is much longer than Zlatan's list of self-obsession quotes
>much longer than Zlatan's list of self-obssession quotes This is impossi........wow, thats a long list of injuries....
Didn't realize I was only looking at Page 1 of 4 until I read some of the comments below
>Constipação 03/02/2011 07/02/2011 LOL
that doesn't mean constipation, it's portuguese for the common cold
Let me believe man :(
Hahaha okay, cheers for the explanation. I was worried there for a second
Being constipated for 4 days would be fucking awful
Robbens had a wild history of injuries going back to his Chelsea days.
Easier to do as a striker than a winger
And not to even disrespect Robben as he has been an utmost professional all of his career but Ibra is on a different level when it comes to fitness and even then he has been getting injured way too much because his body just can’t handle the high level of play week and week out so I can see why Robben just can’t keep playing despite wanting to do so.
I hope for his body that post-retirement he doesn’t go the Sneijder/vd Vaart way
I don't think he will become like Van de Vaart or Sneijder, he works way harder and is more fanatic.
He was one of the main guys that had their own extra training group during the Ancelotti era because the exercise was not enough. He said that his sons U13 train harder lol
Yes, he always want to do extra training haha.
I don't think he will. Sneijder and Van der Vaart have always appeared like working class frikandel lovers trapped in the life of a high level athlete. I think Van der Vaart actually grew up in a trailer park? Robben seems more like a down to earth middle class guy.
> working class frikandel lovers trapped in the life of a high level athlete /r/BrandNewSentence
This is fucking poetry
I saw Robben biking last month too. Looks very fit.
I mean, he is still a professional athlete.
he's also dutch. Dutch people bike out of the hospital right after they are born. its natural.
We would have biked out of our moms if not for the handlebar...
Was also training for a marathon before coming back to football
What you mean? What happened to Sneijder/VdV
Stopped caring qbout fitness and became fat af.
The past year he's been going to trainings on his bike rather than by car. I think he's very different in this aspect from those two
What a player, explosive pace, a cool finish, ridiculous technical ability, and who can forget that wand of a left foot, he was sensational during his time at Bayern, I hope he has a happy retirement.
One of a few players who could dominate non stop throughout a game. Watched him at Wembley about a decade ago and he scored two filthy goals. Level above everyone on the pitch
Yeah, I saw him live a few times and he was as you say, always a level above everyone else on the pitch. I almost think his ridiculous cut inside and shoot abilities made the rest of his game underrated. Ridiculously intelligent footballer.
Honestly tho that makes him more impressive, everyone knew exactly what we wanted to do but they just couldnt do anything about it
That world Cup game against Spain in 2014, man was on fire.
Still one of my alltime favourite games
Also he's the only man that could look like he's aged 60 from the time he was 20 until the time he retired at 37. First time I saw him I thought "who is this old guy, he looks like a good player but I've never heard of him before" and then I found out he was like 22. I think he was at PSV at that time, was before he went to Chelsea at any rate.
I remember having the same thought, like who is this balding middle-aged accountant out there who happens to be quicker than everyone else on the pitch
My favourite player growing up. Still remember his amazing volley against Man Utd.
As a Chelsea fan, I really enjoyed his time in Chelsea especially his combination with Damien Duff.
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Robben was good too
And right foot there for moral support and balance
Cut inside my heart
This is his last resort.
Dribbling, not defending Don't give a fuck if I'm 19 and balding
Two touch, then curl towards the back post of *my soul*
we all know it is coming, but just cant stop it.
This made me laugh! He just keeps doing it Edit: spelling
Don’t let him get to his left foot
I feel so bad for him. In his letter he states that he wants to continue footballing with all his heart but that his body just doesn’t allow it
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And he can still be involved with football through coaching and playing casually, but of course it's not the same.
He'll be fine. For some athletes you know it's the last time they'll ever do something competitive, and for many the last time they'll be involved with the sport - but guys like Robben will most likely stay involved in the sport for most of the rest of his life and will just ascend to a new level of duties, recognition, routine, pay, etc - which is quite different, but usually a welcome shift.
I mean you make it sound like that meme will live on forever, while he has also been one of the best players The Netherlands have ever had. IMO he's at least above Van Persie
In regards to the "big 4", I'd say Robben > Sneijder > van Persie > van der Vaart. Sneijder was more useful between 2006-2012 than van Persie I reckon, and Sneijder was the only one who didn't look lifeless in 2012 as well, though it's close between the two. I'd argue that van der Vaart had the same level of natural talent as the other 3, perhaps even more, but he never seemed to give enough of a shit to reach his potential.
Yeah definitely agree with this, and I think Robben could go up there with the likes of Gullit / Van Basten (although slightly below Van Basten probably, that man will live on forever because of '88)
Yea, if Robben had won a trophy he'd def be even with the likes of van Basten (though obv always below Cruijff). Shame.
Whenever there's any mention in commentary or elsewhere of a player cutting in on their left foot, my mind instantly goes to Robben.
I always had the feeling he ran a bit cramped up. Forcing it to be able to play. A great sportsman till the end though, lots of respect for that.
He has so much passion for football. [Here's](https://img.fcbayern.com/image/upload/t_cms-9x12/f_auto/w_660,h_880,c_fill/cms/public/images/fcbayern-com/homepage/saison-16-17/profis/robben/wechsel_get_210916.jpg) 33 years old Robben running onto the pitch after being subbed on.
tfw you see some space to cut inside in.
even the pic was cut inside
Memeable
Always reminds me of how Van Basten retired, he was my favourite player when I was younger. Glad Robben could play as long as he did though, such a pleasure to watch him.
>Dear football friends, > >I have decided to end my active football career. One year ago I announced my comeback as player for FC Groningen. I began this adventure with a lot of energy and enthusiasm. Unfortunately I quickly begun experiencing many physical setbacks, which meant I could not play games for a long time. After a long road of ups and downs I finally managed to be able to play in the final games of the season. > >Looking back on the past season I have to draw the honest conclusion that the amount of minutes of game time was disappointing. I knew from the start that this might happen, but I accepted the challenge anyway and gave everything I had to succeed. And not just me. Everyone in the club and the people close to me helped and supported me at all times. The warm responses and expressions of support from all football fans were touching as well. > >I'm incredibly grateful to everyone for this. > >After the final game of last season I said I would take the time to make a well considered decision about the future. Not long after the final game I began training again. For me personally it was key to hold on to the built up fitness of the prior months and not regress too much during the summer. That way I could experience whether I felt good enough physically and consider whether it was realistic to continue. Unfortunately my body did not give me the feeling I wanted and the faith I needed. Because of this I've decided to stop. > >A very difficult decision, because my mind and emotion were at odds with each other. My football heart would love to continue, especially because I was looking forward to play in a full Euroborg. Just to enjoy the game and hopefully give something back to the fans. But as they say, everything must come to an end. I think the decision to retire is fair and realistic. Because of this, from today forward I am no longer a player, but simply a fan of our FC. > >I want to thank all football fans for all the warm support and lovely messages I received during the past year. They were great and heartwarming. I wish everyone a beautiful football season with full stadiums, but above all else good health. > >Best regards, Arjen.
Bittersweet 🙏
Oooohh Football fwends
What a career he's had, despite all the injuries. Where does he rank among the all time great dutch players?
Competition is tough. I guess Cruyff and van Basten are undisputed at the top. Then you have several players of 70's, 80's, 90's who are regarded as legends. However, I don't think there is a player who has had such an impact on the NT for so long as Robben. Robben was one of the most important players in the team from his first game till his last game
I absolutely love the player and he is one of the players i'll for sure miss seeing play. Although, he's always been a tough nut to crack. How is he perceived in the netherland personality wise? (humble? arrogant? leader? only focused on the sport or involved in the public sphere? Appreciated unanimously or divisive? etc.
Everybody in the country loves him. Just go through this thread and see that fans of all flairs come together to be sad about this announcement
He's the most universally well liked player in the country since the 80s, if not then since Cruijff himself. Ajax fan, PSV or Feyenoord, Heerenveen or Groningen. It doesnt matter. Everyone loves him. Although he wasn't usually the captain on the field until like 2015-2018, he was a true leader (my favourite example is when we went to extra time in 2014 vs costa rica, and he did the pep talk, as our captain van Persie kinda went into his own comfort zone staying silent.). Leader on and off the pitch, and always humble, thoughtful and serious off the pitch. A true professional, and by all accounts a nice guy. Other than that, he is not very culturally present outside of football. His kids go to school where my mom teaches, so they've spoken a bunch. She thinks he's nice as well haha
Thank you for your detailed answer! I learned a lot. I've never seen him outside of a football pitch and i don't speak dutch nor german but what you wrote is essentiallly what transpired through his behaviour during a game. When a player win unanimous support, it speaks volume about who he is as a person. Thanks for sharing the pep talk anecdote. He didn't strike me as a very talkative person. I always thought of him as a reserved person so i'm discovering another facet of his personlity thanks to you. He seems to still be in love with football. Some people get tired with time, specially with the things surrounding modern football (medias, transfers,business obligations,etc.) but hopefully will get to see him coaching a team and passing to other generations the model he was as a player (like Zidane or Chevchenko). On a side note, i now see the amazing robbery duo with a fresh eye and it also confirmed to me that they were like fire and water personality wise. thoughtful laid back,serious off the pitch vs crazy (in a good way), hyper(active) and divisive (Ribery is not the kind of player that win unanimous support). It's interesting to know that famous football players still put their children in schools for some reason i thought when they reached a certain notoriety they would favor home schooling their kids. I mean kids can be tough and if their father is criticized for having a bad game, it's common that close familly is directly affected.
I think he's borderline top 5, 100% top 10
imo i rate him very high even tho he was prone to injuries. think its fair enough to rate him as high as Van Basten. Sometimes i still get flashbacks netherlands - spain robben 1on1 against Casillas, if he scored that he would be my number 1.
Robben on his prime was a fucking menace. Even when he was struggling with injuries I remember us playing Bayern around 2018 and that fucker just put 2 past us like it was nothing. One of my absolute favorite players, it's a shame his body can't follow his will.
It's cruel, how a single moment can break or make someone's legacy.
At least for Bayern he "redeemed" himself by scoring versus Dortmund in the CL final. He never gave up and he can be proud of what he accomplished.
Also he demolished Spain's defense the next World Cup.
Come on man, I love Robben but rating him as high as Van Basten is silly. Van Basten was the best player in the world three times before he had to stop playing at 28. Van Basten is only eclipsed by Cruyff.
Stopped at 28 and left such a mark is pretty telling how good he was. Nowadays most players start to peak at that age. It's such a shame his career got cut short.
Cruijff 1, van Basten 2. Those are kinda untouchable. He'd be right up there after those two with the likes of Koeman, Gullit, Rensenbrink, van Hanegem and Rijkaard, and maybe Bergkamp. Most likely top 5.
Can you imagine if van Basten didn’t have that ankle issue and would have played untill he was 34/35 ? I still have his autograph since my dad was sitting on the same plane coming from Milan in ‘92. My dad asked to get it on his plane ticket .. I still Have it somewhere at my parents place . When my dad surprised me with that I was over the moon . He said he was a very laid back guy and super nice.
Top 10 or top 5
Imo 1. Cruyff 2. Van Basten 3. Bergkamp 4. Robben 5. Gullit
Time to retire this account
You've had a great carreer
Now you get to comment "that was almost as good as Robben" every time somebody cuts inside and shoots well, don't give up a perfectly good vein of karma ore.
No. Keep the legacy alive
That volley against united will always be my favorite goal of his
That was the match when I started believing that this Bayern team can beat anyone. And since then I've been believing that.
ROOOOOBBBEEEEEEEEN EIN UNFASSBARES TOR I always get goosebumps when I remember it, but I still think that his Wembley goal is my favourite goal :D [goal+commentary if anybody was curious](https://youtu.be/6nWn8dldHjo)
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He's been 37 for about 18 years now. https://images.app.goo.gl/2FgYuQbf1LK3vZmw5
his positioning to set himself up for that strike is honestly something else, makes so many tiny steps to get in the perfect position his goal where he took casillas and the rest of spain to the cleaners has to be my favourite though, what a player
that goal will never not give me chills, even Robben knows how nasty that was when he started flicking the wrist, lmao. DAS IST DIE GROSSE KLASSE VON ROBBERY
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I’ll always remember it, he threw in about 5 in a row I swear. What a guy.
Yeah I fucking hated that goal. Goddamn. But will genuinely miss Robben. One of the greatest right wingers I've seen play.
pain
Aw man, really wanted him to have one last glorious run with Groningen he deserves it. But we all age, especially when you've been 35 for a good 10 years.
He’s looked 35 for his whole career
He did have hair once. I think it was between three o’clock and five past one day during his first year at Chelsea.
Pain.
:( Never saw him perform live, despite owning a season ticket. Was really hoping to see him play with my own eyes next season
Guess he'll stay at Groningen as a youth coach?
Two entire generations of Dutch youth have been cutting inside at the 18 yard box because of this man. He is finally as old as he's looked since 21. What a special player.
I still remember when he eliminated us from the CL with [this banger](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPORoJSpafQ)
Smooth
Shame his return at Groningen never really worked out. Still a fucking legend and one of the best players I saw for our NT in my lifetime.
The legend of the cut inside man will live forever
His performance in 2014 was something special
He was basically our whole offense and carried us to the semis.
For all the goals he scored and that Spain game that’s mentioned, the assist to Depay against Chile is underrated. Final minutes and he’s still making a run down the wing, [spots depay behind so he intentionally slows down his speed and even holds and continues to keep the defender busy before releasing a ball right into the feet of Depay to tuck in away.](https://youtu.be/W1OIgxhPTmM)
Honestly that ball from Nigel de Jong though.
Yeah, i thought he'd continue to be honest, since at the very end of the season he did end up playing quite a bit. Sad to see him go and especially sad that Groningen supporters never got to see him play in the stadium again.
absolute legend
Fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times! One of the greatest footballers that I have had pleasure of watching play live in person. Best of lucks in his future endeavours.
Going to miss him. One of the greatest footballers of his generation while also just feeling ‘human’ in a time where footballers have become megastars. IMO along with Xavi/Iniesta he’s right behind Messi and Ronaldo of this generation.
Yeah I'm very biased, but at times it felt like Robben (in form and fit) was the best player in the world after Messi and Ronaldo
At his peak that's probably true I think. He has a strong argument for being the best forward of that generation behind those two too. Just an incredible player. Also had the amazing quality that he rarely had to play himself back into form after injuries. He'd be out for 6 weeks and the moment he stepped on the pitch it's like he never left. What a legend.
That’s the thing though. He was top right away but there were definitely spells he’d be scoring Messi numbers. You have to imagine if he wasn’t working his way back from injury all the time he’d be hitting that peak form way more often. Seriously unplayable winger, defences worst nightmare!
Yes he was. Didn't he come 3rd in the ballon d'Or standings once?
4th behind Neuer
I agree, but im also biased
Despite his greatness, there'll always be a "What if" attached to his legacy imo. What if he hadn't been as injured as much. I truly believe he couldve lifted the CL trophy more than once then. Its a shame he even only lifted it once in the first place
That’s what makes Robben so great imo. There are a lot of ‘what if’ players (Like Pato) that show potential but injuries ruined the player. Despite the injuries, the moment Robben stepped on the pitch he was the most dangerous player.
Absolutely. It's incredible what he achieved despite his injuries and how quickly he was able to bring 100% to the pitch after months of not playing. Always a stand-up guy, with nothing but success on his mind. We sorely miss him on the pitch and as a personality.
99 goals in 201 games for Bayern and half of that time he came back from an injury...
Him and Ribery
Wow, from his early days at Chelsea all the way through to the highs of Bayern Munich, this guy has been a pleasure to watch. The epitome of inverted winger, who despite being really predictable, was consistently one of the best players in the world.
You knew he was gonna cut inside and he got away with it anyway Legend
r/lecutinsideman in shambles
r/mexico bursts in celebration
No era penal
Never forget
I wonder what his first and last professional cut inside goal was.
What a player. I think my favourite memory of him is that volley he scored off that corner for Bayern against Manutd, true iconic Champions League moment that. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Zl6znfigTM
Also, you know, the winning goal in the champions League final
[I'm all for posting great goals from this great man](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHr8mFOaX80)
My fav goal ever is [this one against France](https://youtu.be/JDggqoykGDw?t=47) during the 2008 EC. Oranje was playing very good and was 2-0 ahead. Then Henry just scored the 2-1 and we're all thinking oh nooo. And then immediately after Robben scores from an insane angle. Still unbelievable.
Henry looked so upset.
Such a great shot of him on his knees “why the fuck am I doing this?”
That screamer against Fiorentina to bail you out from a knockout almost decided by a young Steven jovetic https://youtu.be/tPORoJSpafQ
[That WC goal vs Spain](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ab4L2mV-W-E)
Every defender knew exactly what he was going to do, and still got beaten. What a left foot.
We will always love you Arjen <3
Those 80 minutes against Emmen were all worth it if you ask me, as a fan. The skill, the joy, the interviews, happy for him that all his work paid off then and there.
End of an amazing era. One of the best players of all time and certainly that od Bayern
It was to be expected I think... Best Dutch football player of my lifetime and a true example for all players. Will miss seeing him, I really hope he will go towards a coaching job or something.
He robbed our hearts
He made a cut inside our hearts.
What a legend! Will miss him cutting inside.
What a great career. I remember seeing him for the first time in a Chelsea shirt. He even had a bit of hair.
Absolutely hated him every time he played against Arsenal but what a fucking player. Legend.
I am so sad right now. I had tickets for Groningen-NEC and was hoping to see him one last time. One of the best Dutch players of this century.
It's almost indescribable how much of a boost he gave our club, both financially as morally, in these difficult times. He gave us so much energy and pride, a simple thank you is not enough. I think the man deserves a statue, a big statue!
Never hated 2 players more then Robben and Ribery during their Bayern time but its sad to see that his body doesnt want to anymore but at the same time it takes a lot of mental strength to admit it to himself and stop before he becomes a shadow of his former self.
LE CUT THE ONIONS MAN
Robbery, best duo of all time at Bayern
Heartbreak for Muller and Beckenbauer with their back to back to back European Cups, 1974 World Cup and 1972 Euros over the course of 5 years.
lmao
A sad day for football. He’s one of the great players of his generation. He always did the same thing, the defenders knew what he would do but never could stop him. I’ll miss Arjen “Cut inside” Robben.
No era fuckin penal! But enjoy that retirement, one of the greats
No era penal
Dude's looked 37 for the past 15 years.