Rotterdam, Netherlands — Former Real Madrid and Netherlands international winger, Royston Drenthe, has been hospitalised after suffering a stroke, his representatives confirmed on Monday.
According to a statement released by FC de Rebellen, an organisation that represents former professional footballers, the 38-year-old was admitted to hospital on Friday and is currently receiving treatment.
“Last Friday, Royston Drenthe suffered a stroke. Drenthe is currently receiving good care and is in good hands,” the group said.
“The team and those involved hope for a speedy recovery.”
The statement did not disclose which hospital Drenthe was admitted to or provide details on the severity of his condition. However, FC de Rebellen assured fans that he was responding well to treatment and surrounded by his family and close associates.
Drenthe rose to prominence with Dutch side Feyenoord before earning a high-profile move to Real Madrid in 2007, where he won the La Liga title in his debut season. Known for his pace and flair, he made over 60 appearances for the Spanish giants before embarking on loan spells across Europe.
He later played for Premier League club Everton, as well as Reading and Sheffield Wednesday, before returning to the Netherlands to wind down his career in the lower divisions.
After retiring from football, Drenthe made headlines for his ventures outside the sport — including acting, business, and music.
Tributes have begun to pour in from across the football community, with fans and former teammates expressing shock and sending messages of support for his recovery.
Drenthe, who was capped by the Netherlands at senior level, remains a popular figure among fans of the clubs he represented, particularly for his explosive performances early in his career.
