Holland Matchworn Jan Wouters vs. France 10 November 1982
Jan Wouters developed into one of the most reliable and hardโworking midfielders in Dutch football. He began his professional career at FC Utrecht before moving to Ajax in 1986, where he became a key figure in Johan Cruyffโs side that won the Cup Winnersโ Cup and KNVB Cup in 1987. His relentless work rate, tactical discipline and leadership made him indispensable. After Ajax, he played for Bayern Munich and later PSV, closing his career in 1996. Throughout his club journey he was known for his toughness, ballโwinning ability and consistency, earning respect across Europe.
For the Dutch national team, Wouters earned 70 caps between 1982 and 1994 and played a crucial role in one of the most successful eras in Oranje history. He was part of the squad that won the 1988 European Championship, where his performances earned him a place in the UEFA Team of the Tournament. Wouters featured at three major tournamentsโEURO 1988, World Cup 1990 and EURO 1992โserving as the stabilising force in midfield. His intelligent positioning and defensive strength allowed the more attacking players to shine, making him a cornerstone of the national team for over a decade.
Jan Wouters developed into one of the most reliable and hardโworking midfielders in Dutch football. He began his professional career at FC Utrecht before moving to Ajax in 1986, where he became a key figure in Johan Cruyffโs side that won the Cup Winnersโ Cup and KNVB Cup in 1987. His relentless work rate, tactical discipline and leadership made him indispensable. After Ajax, he played for Bayern Munich and later PSV, closing his career in 1996. Throughout his club journey he was known for his toughness, ballโwinning ability and consistency, earning respect across Europe.
For the Dutch national team, Wouters earned 70 caps between 1982 and 1994 and played a crucial role in one of the most successful eras in Oranje history. He was part of the squad that won the 1988 European Championship, where his performances earned him a place in the UEFA Team of the Tournament. Wouters featured at three major tournamentsโEURO 1988, World Cup 1990 and EURO 1992โserving as the stabilising force in midfield. His intelligent positioning and defensive strength allowed the more attacking players to shine, making him a cornerstone of the national team for over a decade.