Where is Frank Rijkaard Now? What Happened With Frank Rijkaard?
by Kavitha
Updated Feb 01, 2024
Who is Frank Rijkaard?
Frank Rijkaard is a Dutch former footballer and manager born on September 30, 1962, in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches tall, he played as a defensive midfielder and central defender during his football career. Rijkaard began his youth career with SC Buitenveldert and later played for clubs like Blauw-Wit Amsterdam, DWS, and Ajax.
In his senior playing career, Rijkaard achieved notable success with Ajax, Sporting CP, Real Zaragoza (on loan), and AC Milan. With Ajax, he won five Eredivisie titles and the 1994–1995 Champions League. His time at AC Milan included Serie A titles and European Cup triumphs in 1988–89 and 1989–90.
On the international stage, Rijkaard earned 73 caps for the Netherlands national team. He played a key role in the team's victory in the 1988 Euro and a third-place finish in the 1992 Euro. Rijkaard also participated in the 1990 and 1994 World Cups.
Transitioning to coaching, Rijkaard became well-known for his managerial tenure at Barcelona, where he secured La Liga titles in 2004–05 and 2005–06, along with winning the 2005–06 Champions League. He also managed the Netherlands national team, Sparta Rotterdam, Galatasaray, and the Saudi Arabia national team during his managerial career. Regarded as one of the best midfielders in football history, Rijkaard's contributions to both playing and coaching have left a lasting impact on the sport.
Full Name
Franklin Edmundo Rijkaard
Date of Birth
September 30, 1962
Age
61 years (2023)
Place of Birth
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Height
1.90 m (6 ft 3 in)
Net Worth (Estimated)
$5 Million
Where is Frank Rijkaard Now?
Frank Rijkaard, the former football player and coach, has largely withdrawn from the football scene and is currently residing in Amsterdam with his wife Stefanie and their children. After a successful playing career, including winning the Champions League with AC Milan and Ajax, and coaching Barcelona to Champions League victory in 2006, Rijkaard faced challenges in his coaching career.
His tenure at Barcelona ended in 2008 amid struggles to manage a talented but inconsistent squad. Following his departure, Rijkaard had brief coaching stints with Galatasaray and the Saudi Arabia national team. However, he eventually stepped away from the football limelight.
Rijkaard's decision to keep a low profile might be influenced by personal factors, such as the fallout in the Netherlands when he split from his former wife Monique in 2009. Financially secure due to wise investments in the Amsterdam property market, Rijkaard reportedly receives occasional offers, particularly from Chinese clubs, but has consistently declined.
Known for his unconventional approach, Rijkaard's football journey saw him clash with Johan Cruyff during his playing days but eventually reconciling to the point where Cruyff recommended him as the national team manager for Euro 2000. Despite the ups and downs in his coaching career, Rijkaard now enjoys a quieter life away from the football spotlight, choosing not to engage in public life and remaining retired from professional football.
Rijkaard Barcelona
FC Barcelona President Joan Laporta is considering a sensational return of Frank Rijkaard as the head coach to replace the outgoing Xavi Hernandez, according to reports from Radio MARCA. Laporta had previously hired Rijkaard in 2003, and under his management, Barcelona secured their first La Liga title since 1999 in the 2004/2005 season. Rijkaard also led the team to a Champions League victory in 2006 and another La Liga title in the following campaign.
Despite being dismissed in 2008 after a trophy drought, Rijkaard is remembered as one of the club's greatest coaches in the 21st century for revitalizing Barcelona and nurturing talents like Ronaldinho and giving Lionel Messi his debut.
Laporta's approach to Rijkaard comes as Xavi Hernandez announced his departure from the coaching role, leaving Barcelona without a designated replacement. Reports suggest Marco Van Basten could potentially serve as Rijkaard's assistant, but convincing Rijkaard, who has been away from football management since leading Saudi Arabia from 2011 to 2013, might pose a challenge.
Rijkaard, a four-time continental champion as both a player and tactician, has shown no intention of returning to coaching. While Laporta hasn't given up hope, Rijkaard's decision remains uncertain. The potential return of Rijkaard would mark a significant chapter in Barcelona's history, as Laporta aims to replicate the success the Dutchman brought to the club in the early 2000s.
Frank Rijkaard Career
Frank Rijkaard, born on September 30, 1962, in Amsterdam, is a Dutch football legend known for his successful playing career and managerial achievements. As a player, he played as a defensive midfielder and central defender. Rijkaard earned 73 caps for the Netherlands national team and played a crucial role in their victory at UEFA Euro 1988.
Notably, Rijkaard's international career includes appearances in the 1990 and 1994 FIFA World Cups and Euro 1992. Despite a successful career, he was involved in a controversial spitting incident with Rudi Völler during the 1990 World Cup match between the Netherlands and West Germany.
Transitioning to coaching, Rijkaard began with the Netherlands national team in 1998, reaching the semi-finals of Euro 2000. His coaching journey also took him to clubs like Sparta Rotterdam and eventually to Barcelona in 2003. At Barcelona, Rijkaard faced initial challenges but turned the team's fortunes around, winning La Liga titles in 2004–05 and 2005–06, as well as the 2005–06 Champions League.
After leaving Barcelona, Rijkaard managed Galatasaray and the Saudi Arabia national team. He experienced success with Galatasaray but faced challenges with Saudi Arabia, leading to his dismissal in 2013. Rijkaard then took on an advisory role at Florida prep school Montverde Academy in 2013. In December 2016, he announced his decision to step away from pursuing managerial positions. Throughout his career, Rijkaard was recognized for his contributions, earning a place in the FIFA 100, Pelé's list of the 125 World's Greatest Living Footballers in 2004.
Frank Rijkaard Net Worth
Frank Rijkaard, the former Dutch soccer player and coach, has accumulated a net worth of $5 million. Starting his professional career at just 17, Rijkaard enjoyed a successful playing career, winning numerous titles with clubs like Ajax and AC Milan. His net worth is attributed to his earnings as a soccer player and later as a coach.
Notably, Rijkaard's wealth is not only a result of his achievements on the field but also includes his managerial roles, particularly his successful stint with Barcelona, where he won La Liga titles and the Champions League.
Despite controversies, like the 1990 World Cup spitting incident with Rudi Völler, Rijkaard's contributions to football have left a lasting impact on his financial standing. Living in his own house and maintaining a significant net worth, Rijkaard's career journey reflects both success and occasional challenges.
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Where is Frank Rijkaard Now - FAQs
Frank Rijkaard was born on September 30, 1962.
Frank Rijkaard is currently residing in Amsterdam with his wife Stefanie and their children.
Frank Rijkaard's net worth is estimated to be $5 million.
Frank Rijkaard coached FC Barcelona to a Champions League victory in 2006.
Frank Rijkaard left his coaching role at Barcelona in 2008 after a trophy drought and struggles with team management.