Pic: Getty Images
Former Real Madrid and Everton winger Royston Drenthe has been hospitalised after suffering a stroke on Friday.
The 38-year-old, who won the LaLiga title with Real Madrid in 2008, was admitted following what reports in the Netherlands described as a “serious medical setback.”
In a statement, FC De Rebellen—a club for retired Dutch and Belgian footballers—confirmed the incident and appealed for privacy for Drenthe’s family.
“Royston Drenthe suffered a stroke on Friday. He is receiving good care and is in safe hands. The team and those involved are hoping for a smooth recovery,” the statement said.
Drenthe began his professional career with Feyenoord, earning a move to Real Madrid in 2007. He made 65 appearances for the Spanish giants before joining Everton on loan for the 2011–12 season, where he scored four goals in 27 matches.
After leaving Madrid, Drenthe had spells with Reading, Sheffield Wednesday, and clubs in Russia, Turkey, and the UAE. He earned one senior cap for the Netherlands before retiring in 2023.
Following his football career, Drenthe explored various ventures, including music, fashion, and television punditry. He also worked as a healthcare assistant in Rotterdam, actively engaging in community projects.
In previous interviews, Drenthe spoke openly about the pressures of early fame, his time alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid, and his struggles with finances—admitting he lost millions on luxury spending before declaring bankruptcy in 2020.
FC De Rebellen has urged fans and the public to respect his family’s privacy as he continues to recover.