Life took an unexpected turn for former Real Madrid and Everton star Royston Drenthe after he suffered a stroke on Friday.
The 38-year-old Dutchman, known for his flair on the pitch and colourful personality off it, was rushed to hospital following what local reports described as a serious medical setback.
Official Statement from FC De Rebellen
News of Drenthe’s condition was confirmed by FC De Rebellen — a unique football club made up of some of the most outspoken and unconventional ex-players from the Netherlands and Belgium.
In their statement, the club reassured fans that Drenthe is receiving excellent care and urged everyone to respect his family’s need for privacy.
“Last Friday, Royston Drenthe suffered a stroke,” the statement read.
“He is currently being well looked after, and we hope for his smooth recovery.
His family is asking for peace and space during this time so they can fully support him.”
From Feyenoord Prodigy to Real Madrid Star
Drenthe’s story began in Rotterdam, where he burst onto the scene as a dynamic teenager at Feyenoord.
His explosive pace, fierce left foot, and confident style quickly caught the attention of Europe’s elite clubs.
In 2007, his big break came when Real Madrid signed him — a dream move for any young player.
During his time at the Bernabéu, he made 65 appearances and played a part in helping the Spanish giants win the 2007–08 LaLiga title.
But after a few inconsistent seasons, Drenthe sought new challenges — one of them being a loan move to the Premier League with Everton, where he scored four goals in 27 appearances under David Moyes.
A Career of Highs, Lows, and Worldwide Adventures
After his stint with Madrid, Drenthe’s football journey took him across several continents.
He played for clubs in England, including Reading and Sheffield Wednesday, before moving to leagues in Russia, Turkey, and the UAE.
Although his international career with the Netherlands was brief — earning just one senior cap — his name remained well-known for both his talent and his fiery personality.
Drenthe officially retired from professional football in 2023, closing the chapter on a career that was as unpredictable as it was entertaining.
Life Beyond Football
Retirement didn’t slow Drenthe down.
He reinvented himself several times, exploring different paths — from being a TV pundit in Spain and the Netherlands to trying his hand at rap music and running a fashion store.
His creativity and charisma made him a natural entertainer, even off the pitch.
In a surprising twist, he also trained as a healthcare worker in his hometown of Rotterdam and became actively involved in community work.
Those close to him often spoke of how much he had matured and wanted to give back after years in the spotlight.
Reflecting on Fame and the Price of Success
Drenthe has often spoken candidly about the rollercoaster of fame he experienced during his Real Madrid days.
Sharing the dressing room with global icons like Cristiano Ronaldo, he once admitted he felt “like a god” — but also confessed that the fast-paced lifestyle came with consequences.
“I felt like a god at Real Madrid, playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, and I am proud of it,” he once said.
“But I also liked to party hard in this world of glitter and glamour. I used to drink a lot, even when I had training the next morning.”
In later years, his extravagant lifestyle caught up with him financially.
By 2020, Drenthe had declared bankruptcy, admitting he had “lost millions” on parties, travel, and luxury cars.
Despite the setbacks, he always maintained that he had no regrets about his choices or his football career.
Hoping for Recovery and Strength Ahead
Today, the football community is rallying around Drenthe, sending messages of hope and encouragement.
As he battles through recovery, many are reminded that beyond the fame and headlines lies a man who has lived boldly — both on and off the field.
Fans and former teammates alike are wishing him strength as he focuses on healing, with hopes that his resilient spirit will once again see him through this challenging chapter.