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Ruud Gullit (Dutch pronunciation: [ˈryt ˈxʏlɪt] ⓘ;[note 1] born Rudi Dil; 1 September 1962) is a Dutch former footballer and subsequent manager. He was noted for his ability to play in multiple positions.[5][6][7][8]

Key Information

At club level, Gullit moved from PSV to AC Milan in 1987 for a world record transfer fee.[9] Nicknamed "The Black Tulip", he was part of a notable Dutch trio at AC Milan which included Marco van Basten and Frank Rijkaard. Gullit won three Serie A titles and two European Cups with Milan. In 1995, he signed for Chelsea and was appointed the club's player-manager a year later. In his debut season, he led Chelsea to FA Cup success, the club's first major title for 26 years, and in doing so, became the first overseas manager to win the FA Cup.

Gullit captained the Netherlands national team that was victorious at the UEFA Euro 1988 and was also a member of the squad for the 1990 FIFA World Cup and Euro 1992. He won the Ballon d'Or in 1987 and was named the World Soccer Player of the Year in 1987 and 1989. In 2004, he was named one of the Top 125 greatest living footballers as part of FIFA's 100th anniversary celebration.

Early life

[edit]

Gullit was born as Rudi Dil in Amsterdam to George Gullit, a Surinamese who arrived in the Netherlands with Herman Rijkaard (father of Frank Rijkaard),[10] and Dutch mistress Ria Dil[11] from the Jordaan district of Amsterdam. The Gullit family lived in one split level room on the top floor of a small apartment building. Gullit's father worked as an economics teacher at a local school, his mother as a custodian at the Rijksmuseum.

Gullit developed his football skills in the confines of the Rozendwarsstraat, and street football was instrumental in his formative years. Gullit's first team were the Meerboys, where he joined as a junior in 1970. At the age of ten, however, Gullit moved from the Jordaan to Amsterdam Old West where he played street football alongside Rijkaard. Gullit joined the DWS club after his move, and came to the attention of the Dutch youth team, where he played alongside future full international teammates, Erwin Koeman, Ronald Koeman and Wim Kieft.

It was during his time at DWS that Gullit first took to using his father's surname, rather than his registered surname (from his mother), as he thought Gullit sounded more like a football player.[12]

Club career

[edit]

HFC Haarlem

[edit]

On 22 September 1978, Gullit signed professionally for HFC Haarlem under coach and former West Bromwich Albion player Barry Hughes. Gullit made 91 league appearances for Haarlem, scoring 32 goals. He made his debut for the club at just 16 years and 11 months old, on 19 August 1979 (Haarlem-MVV Maastricht 2-2), becoming at the time the youngest player in the history of the Eredivisie.[13] In his first year at Haarlem, the club finished bottom of the Eredivisie, but bounced back the following season winning the Eerste Divisie. Gullit was named as the best player in the Eerste Divisie that season.[14]

In the 1981–82 season, Gullit was in fine form as Haarlem finished fourth and qualified for Europe for the only time in their history. In that same season, Gullit scored the goal he would later consider his finest: "Playing against Utrecht I went past four defenders and then the goalkeeper, and scored. It was an unforgettable goal for me."[15] Hughes was so impressed with the young Gullit that he described him as the "Dutch Duncan Edwards".[14]

Feyenoord

[edit]
Gullit (Feyenoord) in duel against Louis van Gaal (Sparta), 6 November 1983
Ruud Gullit in 1988

The young Gullit was considered as a signing by English sides Arsenal and Ipswich Town, but managers Terry Neill and Bobby Robson turned him down. Neill later said that he considered £30,000 too much for "this wild kid".[16] Gullit therefore moved to Feyenoord in 1982, where he made 85 league appearances, scoring 31 goals. At Feyenoord, Gullit found himself playing in his second season, 1983–84, alongside Johan Cruyff, while the assistant manager was Wim van Hanegem, and they were to leave a lasting impression.[17]

Gullit's first season saw Feyenoord miss out on major honours, but the following year they completed the league and cup double. Gullit was named Dutch Footballer of the Year in recognition of his contribution to Feyenoord's success. At Feyenoord, Gullit occupied an increasingly advanced role in midfield, having played predominantly as a sweeper at Haarlem.[18] While at Feyenoord, Gullit became the focus of a race row as manager Thijs Libregts was alleged to have referred to Gullit as "blackie" and criticised him for being lazy, though Libregts defended himself by stating that it was merely a nickname.[19] While playing for Feyenoord at St Mirren in September 1983, he was racially abused and spat on by supporters of the Scottish club.[20] Gullit called it "the saddest night of my life".[citation needed]

PSV

[edit]

In 1985, Gullit moved to PSV for 1.2 million Dutch guilders and wound up scoring 46 goals in 68 league appearances for the team. Gullit was again named Footballer of the Year in 1986 as he helped PSV capture the Eredivisie crown, a feat they repeated the following year.[21]

AC Milan

[edit]

Gullit signed for AC Milan in 1987, paying the then world record transfer fee of 18 million guilders as a replacement for Ray Wilkins. Milan's club president Silvio Berlusconi had an ambition to revive the fortunes of the Italian club which had stagnated after its glory days in the 1960s. Among Gullit's teammates at the club were compatriot van Basten, who came at the same time. Later, they were joined by fellow compatriot, close friend as well as Ajax teammate of van Basten, Rijkaard. The club also had a young Paolo Maldini, along with a more experienced Franco Baresi. Gullit's exploits with first PSV and then Milan helped him win the Ballon d'Or award in 1987 which he dedicated to Nelson Mandela.[22]

When he first arrived at Milan, Gullit initially struggled to fit in as he spoke no Italian and was new to living in a foreign country.[23] Gullit's first season at Milan, however, saw the club win the Scudetto for the first time in nine years, under coach Arrigo Sacchi. Initially used on the right of an attacking trio alongside van Basten and Pietro Virdis, after van Basten received an injury it was changed to a front two. The following season Milan built on their domestic success by adding the European Cup to their list of honours. That performance was followed by a 4–0 victory over Steaua București in the 1989 final, with Gullit scoring two crucial goals. According to Gullit: “The year that we won the Champions League, in the semi-final against Real Madrid I got injured. My meniscus was broken. I got a very quick operation so that I could play the final. The next season when I started to train again, not only my meniscus was damaged but also the cartilage, so for that reason, I couldn't play almost the whole season. It was hard because I was on the edge of maybe not playing football anymore.".[24]

The following year, Milan retained the trophy as they defeated Benfica in the 1990 final. However, serious injuries sustained to the ligaments of his right knee limited Gullit's playing time, only managed just two domestic games in the 1989–90 season before appearing in the cup final.

In 1990–91, Milan's pursuit of a third consecutive European Cup was cut short by Marseille at the quarter-final stage. Having drawn the first leg at the San Siro, Milan trailed to a Chris Waddle goal with little time remaining when the floodlights went out. After a short delay the lighting was restored, but Milan had returned to their dressing room and refused to return to complete the game. UEFA awarded Marseille a 3–0 victory and expelled Milan from all European competitions for the following season.

While Milan continued their domestic dominance by winning the scudetto in both 1991–92 (a season in which they went undefeated) and 1992–93, Gullit's position became an increasingly peripheral one under new coach Fabio Capello. This was demonstrated by his omission from the 1993 Champions League final in which Milan lost to Marseille, as under the UEFA rules clubs were only allowed to field three foreigners, which was later abolished after the decision of the Bosman ruling. Gullit: "After my injury, I was not the Ruud Gullit anymore what I was before. I had to adjust myself to a different way of playing football, because of the injury and because I was that much out of the game. I had to adapt my game, but I could deal with it. But of course, the role at Milan was less important than before, because at that moment the rotation system was introduced. So we were only allowed to have three foreigners. So sometimes you couldn't play. So that was also hard. When you are used to playing most of the games and all of a sudden you have to rest, so that was hard.”.[24]

Torino was interested in signing him, with the chairman claiming that an agreement with Milan was likely.[25] Bayern Munich was also in talks with Gullit, but fell through.[26] Instead, Gullit was loaned to Sampdoria.

Sampdoria

[edit]

In 1993, Gullit moved to Sampdoria and led them to victory in the Coppa Italia in the 1993–94 season. He also scored the winner in a 3–2 victory over Milan, one of 15 goals he scored during the league campaign. He returned to Milan and scored in the season-opening 1994 Supercoppa Italiana against Sampdoria, but soon returned to the Genoese club before the midway point of the 1994–95 season, with Alessandro Melli being loaned in the opposite direction as part of the deal. During his time with Sampdoria, Gullit served under future England national team manager Sven-Göran Eriksson and the two had a strong understanding and mutual respect.

Chelsea

[edit]
Gullit's #4 Chelsea shirt, on display at the club museum

In July 1995, Gullit signed for Chelsea on a free transfer. Initially played as sweeper by manager Glenn Hoddle with limited success, Gullit was moved to his more familiar role in midfield, where he scored six goals. The signing of Gullit, alongside the likes of Mark Hughes and Dan Petrescu, propelled Chelsea to the semi-final of the FA Cup, although they only finished 11th in the FA Premier League.

Gullit had some difficulties adapting to the style of play at Chelsea: "I would take a difficult ball, control it, make space and play a good ball in front of the right back, except that he didn't want that pass. Eventually Glenn said to me, 'Ruud, it would be better if you do these things in midfield.'"[27] His adjustment, however, was rapid and he ended the season by being named runner-up to Eric Cantona as Footballer of the Year.

Gullit has since often stated in interviews that it was in London he enjoyed his career the most and felt happiest: "Every time I played for Chelsea, I thought, 'Nice game, beautiful stadium, great crowd, I'm playing well.' It was the only time I really had fun."[27] In moving to Chelsea, Gullit played an important part in the "foreign revolution" as numerous high-profile international stars, such as Italian Gianfranco Zola and Dutchman Dennis Bergkamp, joined Chelsea and Arsenal respectively, which helped to increase the Premier League's worldwide profile.

International career

[edit]

1980s

[edit]

In 1981, on his 19th birthday, Gullit debuted for the Netherlands national team against Switzerland as a substitute, a game the Dutch lost 2–1.[28]

Gullit was one of the key players for the Netherlands as he helped his country win UEFA Euro 1988 under coach Rinus Michels. Having lost their opening game of the tournament to the Soviet Union, the Netherlands beat England and the Republic of Ireland to reach the semi-finals,[29] with Gullit setting up two of van Basten's three goals in the 3–1 win in the second group match against England.[30] After defeating West Germany 2–1 in Hamburg,[29] the Netherlands faced the Soviet Union again in the final. Gullit opened the scoring with a header and van Basten scored a volley from a narrow angle to cap a 2–0 victory. Gullit was thus the first Dutch captain to hold aloft international silverware.[31]

1990s

[edit]
Gullit at a press conference in October 2010

Gullit's knee injuries also hampered his playing time at the 1990 FIFA World Cup, but his dribble and shot against the Republic of Ireland helped the Netherlands qualify for the second round. The Netherlands faced West Germany in a match marred by an altercation between Rijkaard and Rudi Völler. The Germans gained revenge for their defeat at Euro 1988 by beating the Netherlands 2–1 and going on to win the tournament.[32]

At UEFA Euro 1992, Gullit appeared in strong form against Scotland in their opening game of the tournament as he supplied Bergkamp with the only goal of the match.[33][34] However, after a goalless draw with CIS[35] and beating Germany 3–1,[36] the Netherlands suffered a shock exit on penalties to Denmark in the semi-finals, after a 2–2 draw; during regulation time, Gullit assisted Rijkaard for a late equaliser.[37][38] The Danish side ended up winning the championship's Henri Delaunay Trophy.[39]

In 1993, Gullit and Netherlands manager Dick Advocaat began what was to be a long-running dispute which ultimately ended Gullit's international career. Advocaat's decision to play Gullit on the right side of midfield in a game against England at Wembley, rather than his usual central position, upset him and this was exacerbated by his substitution for Peter van Vossen.[19] Gullit refused to play for the Netherlands following this but later changed his mind and agreed to return, facing Scotland in May 1994.[40] Shortly before the 1994 World Cup, Gullit walked out of the pre-tournament training camp and would never play international football again.[41]

Style of play

[edit]

A complete and versatile player capable of aiding his team both defensively and offensively, Gullit epitomised the ethos of Total Football, possessing work rate, adeptness in ball-winning, tactical intelligence, skills and physical qualities.[42] Normally utilised as an attacking midfielder or second striker, he was capable of playing anywhere in midfield or along the front line, on either wing or even in the centre, and could also play as a sweeper.[5]

Gullit's foremost attribute was athleticism, being tall, powerful and an excellent jumper.[43] Yet, unusually for a man of his stature, Gullit had outstanding natural balance, poise, technique, dribbling and free kick ability.[44] He was also noted for his mental acuity, creativity, vision and spatial abilities, which helped him score many goals early on and enabled him to play in a deep-lying playmaker role late in his days, where he was known for creating chances for teammates.[42][45] Beyond his footballing qualities, Gullit also stood out with his leadership and tenacity.[46] Despite his talent, however, he struggled with injuries throughout his career, which later affected his fitness.[42]

Gullit's brilliance prompted Garth Crooks to comment in his 1990 Team of the Week column, "Ruud Gullit is a great player by any standards. He has all the skills. He's not afraid to do things with the ball. And he looks as if he's enjoying every second of it. By my reckoning that's what makes him an even better player than Maradona. Both have the key quality you will find in all the best players: balance. You just can't knock them off the ball. It was the same with Pelé, Beckenbauer and Cruyff."[47]

Managerial career

[edit]

Chelsea

[edit]

In the summer of 1996, when Hoddle left Chelsea to become manager of the England national team, Gullit was appointed as a player-manager becoming the first Dutch manager in the Premier League. Gullit made a promising start to his managerial career when in the first season as a player-manager he guided Chelsea to an FA Cup triumph in 1997, the club's first major trophy in 26 years. In doing so he became the first manager from outside the British Isles and the first black manager to win a major British football trophy.[48] The club also finished at a creditable sixth place in the Premiership.

The following season, with Chelsea in second place in the Premiership and proceeding to the quarter-finals in two cup competitions, he was sacked, allegedly for a disagreement with the club's board over compensation, though Gullit himself disputed this.[49] He was replaced by Gianluca Vialli, a man he had helped to bring to the club, and who went on to guide them to UEFA Cup Winners' Cup and Football League Cup glory over the remainder of the season. Gullit's last appearance as a player came in the first leg of that season's League Cup semi-final against Arsenal, but Gullit was sacked before the second leg.[50] After Gullit's controversial sacking by Chelsea, chairman Ken Bates said of Gullit, "I didn't like his arrogance – in fact I never liked him."[51]

Newcastle United

[edit]

In August 1998, Gullit was named manager of Newcastle United two games into the new league season and reached the 1999 FA Cup Final in his first year. Fans remained supportive despite a poor run of results, although well-publicised disagreements with the team's top scorer Alan Shearer and captain Rob Lee did not put him in a favourable light.[52] Gullit refused to assign Lee a squad number, giving Lee's number 7 to new signing Kieron Dyer. In a match between Newcastle and local rivals Sunderland following the latter's return to the Premiership, Gullit left the usual starting strikers Shearer and Duncan Ferguson on the bench. Newcastle lost 2–1, and Gullit resigned three days later, five games into the 1999–2000 season.[53]

Feyenoord

[edit]

Before the start of the 2004–05 season, Gullit took charge of Feyenoord, quitting at the end of that season without winning any trophies, being replaced by Erwin Koeman. Feyenoord had finished a disappointing fourth in the Eredivisie, behind Ajax, PSV and AZ.

Los Angeles Galaxy

[edit]
Gullit with Cobi Jones at Galaxy

On 8 November 2007, Gullit became head coach for the LA Galaxy, signing a three-year contract.[54] His US$2 million per year salary was the highest ever given to a Major League Soccer (MLS) head coach. Gullit arrived as replacement for Frank Yallop who was let go after Galaxy failed to make the 2007 MLS playoffs despite having record signing David Beckham on the roster.

Gullit's time with Galaxy was troublesome. Not well-versed in the intricacies and specifics of the MLS such as salary cap and draft rules, the Dutchman did not adapt well to the North American league.[citation needed] After losing 0–4 in the season opener, Gullit clashed with midfielder Peter Vagenas, who criticized him for neglecting set-play practice during training.[citation needed]

As the season progressed, Gullit clashed with several players, including Landon Donovan and Abel Xavier; the latter criticized Gullit's managerial style and said he did not have respect for most of the players.[55] It was later reported that Gullit's appointment had been made in controversial fashion as Galaxy general manager, Alexi Lalas, had been bypassed in the process, with the decision being led by David Beckham's advisers: his management company 19 Entertainment and his personal manager Terry Byrne.[56]

On 11 August 2008, Gullit resigned as coach of the Galaxy, citing personal reasons. This came following a seven-game winless streak. General manager Lalas was fired at the same time.[57]

Terek Grozny

[edit]

On 18 January 2011, Russian Premier League side Terek Grozny announced that Gullit has agreed to sign a year-and-a-half contract and become the head coach for the Chechen side. Upon signing, Gullit told Sovetsky Sport, "I'd like to believe that I can bring joy into the lives of the Chechen people through football... Of course, I won't deny that I'm getting lots of money from Terek."[58] Gullit left the club on 14 June 2011.[59]

Media career

[edit]
Gullit in his role as a BBC pundit during the 2017 FA Cup Final

In 1988, together with the reggae band Revelation Time, Gullit gained a No. 3 chart hit with the anti-apartheid song "South Africa" in the Dutch Top 40. Previously, he had a modest hit in 1984 with the song "Not the Dancing Kind". Gullit also joined his band in front of 3,000 people at concerts in Italy, in the year he made a move to AC Milan.[citation needed]

After his spell at Newcastle, Gullit spent several years working as a football commentator, having previously coined the term "sexy football"[60] during his spell as a BBC pundit for Euro 1996 while still playing professionally for Chelsea. Gullit used the term to describe teams, such as Portugal at that tournament,[61] who played attractive football with an emphasis on the defense-penetrating pass-and-move game.

By 2006, Gullit had a talk show on Dutch TV, where he has interviewed, amongst others, Nelson Mandela.[22] When Gullit was named winner of the Ballon d'Or in 1987, he dedicated the award to the then imprisoned Nelson Mandela. Gullit has since said in interviews that he met Mandela after he was released, and that Mandela had said to him, "Ruud, I have lots of friends now. When I was on the inside, you were one of the few."[27]

In 2007, Gullit recalled, "Four months ago I visited Robben Island and met three guys who were cell-mates of Nelson Mandela. They remembered me dedicating my award in 1987 to Mandela and they said they couldn't believe what I had done, and were sure the football authorities would withdraw the award. That's what apartheid did to them, it made them believe injustice was a normal part of life."[27]

Gullit also appeared as a pundit for ITV during the 2006 World Cup and works as an analyst for Champions League games on Sky Sports and Al Jazeera Sports. During the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Gullit worked as a studio analyst alongside former players Jürgen Klinsmann and Steve McManaman for ESPN.[62] He subsequently worked as an analyst for Al Jazeera Sports during Euro 2012 alongside Glenn Hoddle and Terry Venables, among others.[63]

In 2013, Gullit and many other former footballers were brought into EA Sports's FIFA 14 as "Legends" cards in FIFA Ultimate Team; his card is one of the highest rated in the game.[64]

In 2014, Gullit joined BBC's Match of the Day as a studio pundit and first appeared during the 2014–15 season.[65]

Gullit embarked on the Heineken Champions League Trophy Tour in 2016 where he visited Vietnam with Carles Puyol.[66] For the 2022 World Cup, Gullit worked for BeIN Sports and has continued to do so for the UEFA Champions League coverage for the 2022–23 season.[67]

Personal life

[edit]

Gullit is a Feyenoord supporter.[68] Gullit was married to Yvonne de Vries from 1984 to 1991, with whom he had two daughters. From 1994 to 2000 he was married to Italian Christina Pensa, with whom he also had two children. From 2000 to 2012 he was married to Estelle Cruyff, a niece of Johan Cruyff. He also had two children with her. Their son Maxim Gullit played professional football and had a contract with SC Cambuur.[69]

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition[citation needed]
Club Season League National cup[a] League cup[b] Continental Other Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
HFC Haarlem 1979–80 Eredivisie 24 4 0 0 — — — 24 4
1980–81 Eerste Divisie 36 14 5 2 — — — 41 16
1981–82 Eredivisie 31 14 4 2 — — — 35 16
Total 91 32 9 4 — — — 100 36
Feyenoord 1982–83 Eredivisie 33 8 2 1 — — — 35 9
1983–84 Eredivisie 33 15 8 9 — 4[c] 1 — 45 25
1984–85 Eredivisie 19 7 2 0 — 2[d] 0 — 23 7
Total 85 30 12 10 — 6 1 — 103 41
PSV 1985–86 Eredivisie 34 24 2 3 — 2[c] 0 — 38 27
1986–87 Eredivisie 34 22 3 4 — 0 0 — 37 26
Total 68 46 5 7 — 2 0 — 75 53
AC Milan 1987–88 Serie A 29 9 6 3 — 4[c] 1 — 39 13
1988–89 Serie A 19 5 1 2 — 8[d] 4 0 0 28 11
1989–90 Serie A 2 0 0 0 — 1[d] 0 0 0 3 0
1990–91 Serie A 26 7 1 0 — 4[d] 1 3[e] 1 34 9
1991–92 Serie A 26 7 1 1 — — — 27 8
1992–93 Serie A 15 7 6 4 — 4[d] 0 1[f] 0 26 11
1994–95 Serie A 8 3 2 0 — 3 0 1[f] 1 14 4
Total 125 39 17 10 — 24 6 5 2 171 56
Sampdoria 1993–94 Serie A 31 15 10 2 — — — 41 17
1994–95 Serie A 22 9 0 0 — 0 0 0 0 22 9
Total 53 24 10 2 — 0 0 0 0 63 26
Chelsea 1995–96 Premier League 31 3 7 3 2 0 — — 40 6
1996–97 Premier League 11 1 1 0 1 0 — — 13 1
1997–98 Premier League 6 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 10 0
Total 48 4 8 3 7 0 0 0 0 0 63 7
Career total 470 175 61 36 7 0 32 7 5 2 575 219
  1. ^ Includes KNVB Cup, Coppa Italia, FA Cup
  2. ^ Includes Football League Cup
  3. ^ a b c Appearance(s) in UEFA Cup
  4. ^ a b c d e Appearance(s) in European Cup
  5. ^ Two appearances and one goal in European Super Cup, one appearance in Intercontinental Cup
  6. ^ a b Appearance(s) in Supercoppa Italiana

International

[edit]
Appearances and goals by national team and year
National team Year Apps Goals
Netherlands[70][71] 1981 1 0
1982 5 1
1983 6 4
1984 4 0
1985 4 0
1986 6 1
1987 6 5
1988 8 2
1989 2 0
1990 9 1
1991 4 1
1992 8 2
1993 2 0
1994 1 0
Total 66 17
Scores and results list the Netherlands' goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Gullit goal.
List of international goals scored by Ruud Gullit[71]
No. Date Venue Opponent Score Result Competition
1 22 September 1982 De Kuip, Rotterdam, Netherlands  Republic of Ireland 2–0 2–1 UEFA Euro 1984 qualification
2 7 September 1983 Stadion Oosterpark, Groningen, Netherlands  Iceland 2–0 3–0 UEFA Euro 1984 qualification
3 12 October 1983 Dalymount Park, Dublin, Republic of Ireland  Republic of Ireland 1–2 3–2 UEFA Euro 1984 qualification
4 3–2
5 16 November 1983 De Kuip, Rotterdam, Netherlands  Spain 2–1 2–1 UEFA Euro 1984 qualification
6 21 December 1986 Tsirion Stadium, Limassol, Cyprus  Cyprus 1–0 2–0 UEFA Euro 1988 qualification
7 21 January 1987 Camp Nou, Barcelona, Spain  Spain 1–0 1–1 Friendly
8 29 April 1987 De Kuip, Rotterdam, Netherlands  Hungary 1–0 2–0 UEFA Euro 1988 qualification
9 14 October 1987 Górnik Stadium, Zabrze, Poland  Poland 1–0 2–0 UEFA Euro 1988 qualification
10 2–0
11 28 October 1987 De Kuip, Rotterdam, Netherlands  Cyprus 2–0 8–0 UEFA Euro 1988 qualification
12 25 June 1988 Olympiastadion, Munich, Germany  Soviet Union 1–0 2–0 UEFA Euro 1988
13 14 September 1988 Olympic Stadium, Amsterdam, Netherlands  Wales 1–0 1–0 1990 FIFA World Cup qualification
14 21 June 1990 Stadio La Favorita, Palermo, Italy  Republic of Ireland 1–0 1–1 1990 FIFA World Cup
15 17 April 1991 De Kuip, Rotterdam, Netherlands  Finland 2–0 2–0 UEFA Euro 1992 qualification
16 27 May 1992 De Baandert, Sittard-Geleen, Netherlands  Austria 3–1 3–2 Friendly
17 16 December 1992 İnönü Stadium, Istanbul, Turkey  Turkey 2–0 3–1 1994 FIFA World Cup qualification

Managerial statistics

[edit]

All competitive league games (league and domestic cup) and international matches (including friendlies) are included.[72]

As of 2 May 2015
Team Nat Year(s) Record
G W D L Win %
Chelsea England 1996–1998 83 41 18 24 049.40
Newcastle United England 1998–1999 52 18 14 20 034.62
Feyenoord Netherlands 2004–2005 45 25 7 13 055.56
LA Galaxy United States 2007–2008 19 6 5 8 031.58
Terek Grozny Russia 2011 13 3 3 7 023.08
Career total 212 93 47 72 043.87

Honours

[edit]

Player

[edit]

HFC Haarlem[73]

Feyenoord[73]

PSV[73]

AC Milan[73]

Sampdoria[73]

Chelsea[73]

Netherlands[73]

Manager

[edit]

Chelsea[73]

Individual

Bibliography

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Ruud Gullit

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia

Ruud Gullit (born Rudi Dil; 1 September 1962) is a Dutch former professional footballer and manager renowned for his versatility across positions including attacking , forward, and defender during a career spanning the 1980s and 1990s. Beginning at , he rose to prominence with and before a world-record transfer to in 1987, where he helped secure three titles and two European Cups. Gullit earned the in 1987 for his outstanding performances and captained the to their first major trophy, the 1988 . In his later playing years at Sampdoria and Chelsea, he transitioned into management, notably as Chelsea's player-manager, guiding them to the 1997 victory amid a tenure marked by tactical innovation but ending in abrupt dismissal despite a strong league position.

Early life and background

Family origins and childhood

Ruud Gullit was born Ruud Dil on September 1, 1962, in , . His father, George Gullit, was an immigrant from who had migrated to the prior to the major wave of Surinamese settlement following Suriname's independence in 1975. His mother, Ria Dil, was a Dutch woman from the district of , serving as George's buitenvrouw—a Dutch term denoting a mistress or extramarital partner—while George was married to another woman with whom he had three children. Gullit's resided in modest circumstances, a single split-level room in a three-story building in 's urban environment. This upbringing reflected the challenges faced by early Surinamese migrants in the , part of the first generation of Black immigrants from the former Dutch colony, amid a post-colonial that later influenced Dutch and . Gullit later adopted his father's surname, reflecting his Surinamese heritage, which connected him to a broader lineage of Dutch footballers with roots in Suriname, including contemporaries like Frank Rijkaard. During his childhood in , Gullit grew up in a multicultural neighborhood where street football was ubiquitous, fostering his early interest in the sport amid the city's vibrant immigrant communities. The socioeconomic realities of his household, including his mother's role as a custodian, underscored a working-class background that contrasted with the glamour of his later career.

Youth development in football

Gullit honed his initial football abilities through street games in the narrow confines of Amsterdam's Rozendwarsstraat neighborhood during his childhood in the district. This unstructured play, common in working-class urban areas, emphasized , physical resilience, and quick , fostering the versatility that later defined his career as a multi-positional player. At around age eight in 1970, he joined ASV Meerboys, a modest local club training near Ajax's former De Meer stadium, marking his entry into organized youth football. Two years later, in 1972 at age ten, Gullit's family relocated to Amsterdam's Old West district, prompting his transfer to the youth setup of DWS (Door Wilskracht Sterk), where he continued developing amid competitive local matches. His performances at DWS drew scouts' attention, leading to inclusion in Dutch national youth teams alongside emerging talents like , which provided higher-level exposure and tactical refinement under structured coaching. By age 15, Gullit transitioned to HFC 's youth system, benefiting from the club's emphasis on technical proficiency and positional flexibility in the Dutch tradition of . This progression from street improvisation to club and national youth frameworks enabled rapid skill acquisition, culminating in his senior debut for Haarlem on August 19, 1978, at just 16 years and one day old—the youngest player then in the .

Club career

HFC Haarlem

Gullit signed his first professional contract with in 1978 under head coach Barry Hughes, a former West Bromwich Albion player known for his motivational approach. He made his senior debut for the club at the age of 16, marking him as the youngest player in history at that time. In the 1979–80 debut season, Gullit featured in 24 matches as finished 17th and suffered relegation to the . Initially positioned as a centre-back to leverage his physicality and defensive skills, he transitioned to a forward role during his second season, where his goal-scoring ability became more prominent. Over three seasons from 1979 to 1982, he accumulated 91 league appearances and scored 32 goals, demonstrating versatility across defensive and attacking positions while contributing to 's efforts to stabilize in the second tier following relegation. Haarlem did not secure major trophies during Gullit's tenure, with the club's focus on youth development under Hughes yielding promising individual performances rather than collective silverware. His consistent scoring and all-around play attracted attention from larger Dutch clubs, leading to a transfer to in 1982 after these formative seasons honed his technical and physical attributes.

Feyenoord

Gullit transferred to from on July 1, 1982, for a reported fee of £300,000, marking his move to one of the ' major clubs. Over three seasons from 1982 to 1985, he appeared in 103 matches across all competitions, scoring 41 goals and providing 32 assists, showcasing his versatility in midfield and forward roles. In the 1983–84 season, Gullit's performance peaked as clinched the title, with him netting 25 goals in 45 appearances and contributing to the team's domestic success under player-coach , with whom he formed a productive partnership. This campaign highlighted his goal-scoring prowess and playmaking ability, helping the club end Ajax's dominance in the league. also reached the final that year, though specific individual contributions in cup ties underscored his all-around impact. Gullit's time at solidified his reputation as a rising talent in Dutch football, blending physicality with technical skill, before his departure to on , 1985, amid growing interest from top European clubs. In league play alone, he recorded 85 appearances and 31 goals, reflecting consistent output despite occasional positional experiments by coaches.

PSV Eindhoven

Gullit transferred to from rivals on July 1, 1985, for a fee of 1.2 million Dutch guilders, a move that drew criticism from Feyenoord supporters due to the clubs' historic rivalry. During his two seasons at PSV, from 1985 to 1987, he primarily played as a forward or attacking , contributing to the team's dominance in the . In the 1985–86 season, Gullit scored 24 league goals, helping PSV secure the title by a significant margin over rivals Ajax and . The following 1986–87 campaign saw him net 22 goals in 32 league matches, again pivotal in PSV clinching the with 77 points from 34 games, 11 ahead of Ajax. Overall, he recorded 46 goals in 68 appearances for PSV, earning recognition as for both seasons. PSV's success under coach featured Gullit's versatility and goal-scoring prowess, though the club exited European competitions early in both seasons—losing in the Cup second round in 1985–86 and the European Cup first round in 1986–87. His performances culminated in winning the , awarded in December 1987 for his contributions that year, marking him as Europe's top player before departing PSV. Gullit left PSV in March 1987 via a world-record transfer to for approximately 6 million pounds, allowing PSV to invest in squad depth amid growing international interest in Dutch talent.

AC Milan


Gullit joined from on 1 July 1987 for a world-record transfer fee of £6 million. Under manager , he formed a formidable Dutch attacking trio alongside and, from 1988, , revolutionizing Milan's play with high pressing and fluid positioning. In his debut season, Gullit contributed to Milan's first title in nine years, ending Napoli's dominance, while earning the as Europe's best player. The following campaigns brought European glory, with Milan winning the European Cup in 1989 against Steaua București (4–0) and in 1990 against Benfica (1–0 after extra time), where Gullit's versatility in midfield and forward roles proved pivotal despite tactical shifts. He also secured two Intercontinental Cups (1989, 1990) and two titles. Over his time at , spanning 1987 to 1995 with interruptions, Gullit made 125 Serie A appearances, scoring 38 goals, though comprehensive totals across competitions reached 171 appearances and 56 goals. Persistent knee injuries, including ligament damage requiring multiple surgeries starting in late 1989, severely limited his availability; he played only two domestic matches in the 1989–90 season and missed significant periods thereafter. These setbacks contributed to tensions with incoming manager , who favored a more defensive role for Gullit, leading to his loan to Sampdoria in 1993 after further triumphs in 1991–92 and 1992–93. Gullit briefly returned in 1994–95 before departing permanently, having cemented his legacy in Milan's golden era despite physical decline.

Sampdoria

In the summer of 1993, following disputes with manager and limited appearances due to recurring knee injuries, Gullit transferred to Sampdoria on an initial loan from Milan. Under coach , Gullit revitalized his form, captaining the side and contributing to their domestic cup success. During the 1993–94 season, Sampdoria won the , with Gullit scoring crucial goals, including the winner in a 3–2 league victory over former club on 7 November 1993 and a late equalizer against in the quarter-finals. His leadership helped Sampdoria defeat 6–1 on aggregate in the final on 24 May and 8 June 1994. Across two seasons at Sampdoria (1993–95), Gullit made 53 Serie A appearances and scored 24 goals, showcasing his versatility in midfield and attack. Sampdoria finished fourth in in 1993–94 but struggled the following year, placing seventh amid Gullit's occasional injury setbacks. In 1995, with his Milan contract expired, Gullit departed as a to Chelsea, seeking a new challenge in . His tenure at Sampdoria marked a professional resurgence, restoring his reputation as a dominant, all-around player before age and injuries took further toll.

Chelsea

Gullit joined Chelsea on a free transfer from Sampdoria after his expired, with the club agreeing terms on 31 May 1995. Under manager , he initially featured as a sweeper, a position that yielded limited success due to adaptation challenges from his background. He was later repositioned in midfield, where his technical skills and physical presence contributed to Chelsea's improved form, helping the team finish sixth in the 1995–96 season. In May 1996, following Hoddle's departure to , Gullit was appointed player-manager, becoming the first non-British manager in Chelsea's history. As a player, he made 64 appearances across all competitions for Chelsea, scoring 7 goals, including 49 outings with 4 goals. His versatility allowed deployment in central midfield or attack, though recurring knee injuries increasingly restricted his involvement after 1996, limiting him to sporadic starts. Gullit's on-field leadership and experience from winning multiple European honors influenced Chelsea's tactical evolution, emphasizing possession and flair amid the Premier League's physicality. He departed Chelsea in February 1998 upon resigning as manager, having ceased regular playing duties due to fitness issues, marking the end of his stint with the club.

International career

1980s achievements and key matches

Gullit debuted for the national team on 1 September 1981, entering as a substitute in a friendly match against , which the Dutch lost. He earned his first international goal on 22 September 1982 during a match, scoring in a 2–1 home victory over the at in . By , Gullit had become a regular squad member, participating in the ' group stage campaign in , where the team recorded a 1–1 draw against , a 3–2 loss to , and a 5–1 win over but failed to advance due to . The Netherlands did not qualify for the 1986 FIFA World Cup, but Gullit's international prominence grew through consistent performances and leadership qualities, positioning him as captain by the late 1980s. His pivotal role culminated in the UEFA Euro 1988 triumph on home soil in West Germany, marking the Netherlands' first major tournament victory. In the group stage, after a 1–0 opening defeat to the Soviet Union on 12 June, Gullit contributed to a 3–1 win over England on 15 June, scoring the second goal in the 50th minute to help secure progression. The Dutch then edged the Republic of Ireland 1–0 on 18 June, with Marco van Basten netting the lone goal. In the semi-final against hosts West Germany on 21 June at Hamburg's Volksparkstadion, Gullit anchored midfield as the Netherlands trailed 1–0 until Ronald Koeman equalized via free kick in the 73rd minute, followed by van Basten's 88th-minute winner for a 2–1 upset victory, avenging the 1974 World Cup final loss. The final on 25 June in Munich pitted the Dutch against the Soviet Union, where Gullit, as captain under Rinus Michels, opened the scoring in the 32nd minute with a powerful header from Wim Kieft's flick-on, rising above defenders to nod past Rinat Dasayev. Van Basten doubled the lead in the 54th minute with an iconic volley from a deep Arnold Mühren cross, securing a 2–0 win and the championship; Gullit's goal and leadership were instrumental in the triumph.

1990s role and decline

In the early 1990s, Gullit maintained his role as captain of the national team, providing leadership amid a transitional period following the 1988 European Championship victory. At the in , he featured prominently, scoring the opening goal in a 1-1 group stage draw against the on June 11, 1990, though the advanced only to the round of 16, where they were eliminated by on penalties after a 2-2 draw on June 24, 1990. His contributions underscored his enduring influence, but persistent knee injuries from the late 1980s began to limit his consistency and mobility. Gullit captained the side at in , where the Netherlands reached the semi-finals, defeating the 2-0 in the quarters before a 2-2 draw (6-5 on penalties) loss to on July 22, 1992. He started all matches, leveraging his versatility in midfield to orchestrate play, though the team's performance highlighted defensive vulnerabilities and a reliance on aging stars like himself and . Post-tournament, tensions arose with new coach , appointed in 1993, over tactical positioning—Gullit preferred a central role, while Advocaat favored him on the right flank. Gullit's international involvement declined sharply leading into the . After a brief comeback in a March 1994 friendly against , he abandoned the pre-tournament camp on May 30, 1994, citing irreconcilable differences with , effectively retiring from the national team at age 31. This marked the end of his 66-cap, 17-goal international career, which yielded no further appearances despite the ' quarter-final run in the United States tournament without him. Factors contributing to his decline included accumulating injuries, diminishing physical athleticism as he entered his mid-30s, and internal conflicts, amid a squad shift toward younger talents like . He did not feature in , where the exited in the quarter-finals.

Style of play and attributes

Versatility and technical skills

Ruud Gullit exhibited exceptional versatility, enabling him to operate effectively in multiple positions across the pitch, including central defender, sweeper, defensive midfielder, attacking midfielder, and forward. This positional flexibility stemmed from his tactical awareness and physical attributes, allowing seamless transitions between defensive duties and offensive contributions, a hallmark of Dutch principles. His technical skills were equally impressive, characterized by precise ball control, deft , and accurate passing that facilitated build-up play and chance creation. Gullit possessed a powerful shooting ability, often delivering long-range strikes and volleys, while his heading prowess made him a threat in aerial duels, scoring numerous goals from set pieces and crosses. Throughout his career, these attributes contributed to 227 goals in 617 club matches, underscoring his multifaceted impact on the game. His ability to combine technical finesse with adaptability earned praise for elevating team performances in various tactical setups.

Physicality and leadership qualities


Ruud Gullit possessed an imposing physical stature, measuring 1.91 meters (6 ft 3 in) in and weighing approximately 88 kilograms (194 lbs), which endowed him with significant advantages in aerial duels and physical confrontations. His athleticism stood as his primary attribute, leveraging strength and speed to impose dominance across midfield and defensive roles, complemented by exceptional jumping ability that made him a threat from set pieces. Despite his robust build, Gullit exhibited remarkable balance and poise, facilitating fluid movement and technical execution atypical for players of comparable size. Gullit's stamina enabled sustained high-intensity performances, allowing him to traverse the pitch extensively in a box-to-box capacity during matches for clubs like and . This physical robustness underpinned his versatility, as he seamlessly transitioned between positions while maintaining effectiveness in challenges and recovery runs. In leadership, Gullit captained the national team to victory at the in 1988, marking the country's first major international title and showcasing his ability to rally and direct teammates under pressure. At , he assumed the captaincy and emerged as the principal driving force, guiding the squad—alongside and —to three titles and two European Cups through tactical acumen and on-field authority. His tenacity and charisma further solidified his role as a motivator, fostering cohesion in high-stakes environments despite occasional injury setbacks.

Criticisms of consistency and discipline

Gullit's early career drew scrutiny for perceived deficiencies in and defensive . In the early 1980s, scouts evaluated him while at but declined to pursue a transfer, with scout Alex Neill describing him as "lazy and undisciplined," noting that he "played when he wanted to and wouldn't track back." Gullit himself later reflected on the rejection as a pivotal "wake-up call" that spurred improvements in his professionalism, enabling his breakthrough at and subsequent win in 1987. Despite this growth, observers occasionally highlighted a reliance on innate talent over relentless effort, particularly in tracking opponents, which could expose teams during transitions. Recurring injuries further eroded perceptions of his consistency, as chronic issues disrupted peak performance periods. Gullit underwent surgery for knee cartilage inflammation in November 1989, missing significant time at and struggling to regain prior dominance upon recovery. These problems intensified in the , sidelining him for extended stretches and reducing his reliability; by 1993, after major knee surgery, he returned with intensity but could not sustain the injury-free output of his mid-1980s prime. Critics attributed part of this inconsistency to inadequate fitness maintenance, exacerbating physical vulnerabilities in a player whose athleticism underpinned his versatility. Temperament lapses occasionally compounded these concerns, revealing lapses in composure under pressure. In October 1993, after being substituted during a qualifier against , Gullit abruptly quit the Dutch national team in frustration, citing dissatisfaction with coach Dick Advocaat's tactics and his own role—a decision that fueled debates over his and . Though he reconciled and returned for the 1994 , the episode underscored a pattern of impulsive reactions that contrasted with his on-field authority, potentially stemming from high expectations on a talent accustomed to dictating terms.

Managerial career

Chelsea tenure and FA Cup win

Gullit signed for Chelsea on a free transfer from Sampdoria in July 1995, marking his return to competitive football after a year sidelined by injuries. Initially deployed as a sweeper by manager , he struggled in the unorthodox role but contributed to Chelsea's mid-table finish in the 1995–96 season, appearing in 12 league matches. Persistent knee and ankle injuries limited his playing time, restricting him to just four goals across all competitions that year. Following Hoddle's departure to manage England in May 1996, Gullit was appointed Chelsea's player-manager on 10 May, becoming the club's first non-British manager. In his debut managerial season (1996–97), he overhauled the squad with signings like Roberto Di Matteo and shifted to a more attacking style, guiding Chelsea to sixth place in the Premier League while ending a 26-year trophy drought. The highlight was the FA Cup triumph: Chelsea defeated Middlesbrough 2–0 in the final on 17 May 1997 at Wembley Stadium, with Di Matteo scoring after 43 seconds—the fastest goal in FA Cup final history—and Eddie Newton adding a late second. Gullit, starting in midfield, became the first foreign manager to win the competition, though his own contributions were curtailed by a hamstring injury sustained earlier in the tournament. The 1997–98 season saw Chelsea challenge for the Premier League title, sitting third by February amid Gullit's tactical innovations and key acquisitions like and . However, his playing involvement dwindled due to a broken ankle in March 1997 and ongoing fitness issues, limiting him to sporadic appearances. Contract negotiations soured amid reports of Gullit demanding £3.3 million annually—equivalent to £65,000 weekly—prompting his sacking on 12 February 1998, with the club citing inability to meet his terms as the primary reason. Gullit contested the financial narrative, attributing the split to disagreements over squad signings and personal pressures, including his mother's illness, but the dismissal halted a promising era under his leadership.

Newcastle United and Feyenoord struggles

Gullit was appointed manager of Newcastle United on 27 August 1998, succeeding , and oversaw 52 matches with 18 wins, achieving a win percentage of approximately 34.6%. Despite guiding the team to the —where they lost 2–0 to Manchester United—his tenure was undermined by inconsistent league form, with Newcastle finishing 13th in the 1998–99 season. Internal tensions escalated, particularly over tactical decisions and player management, culminating in a public fallout with club captain . The breaking point came during the 1999 Tyne-Wear derby on 25 April, when Gullit controversially dropped Shearer to the bench amid ongoing disputes, resulting in a 1–0 home defeat to that intensified dressing-room unrest and fan criticism. A poor run of results followed, including only one win in the last seven league games of the 1998–99 season, exacerbating pressure from media scrutiny and perceived invasions of privacy. Gullit resigned on 28 August 1999, citing recent poor performances as a partial factor but emphasizing personal reasons related to media intrusion as the primary cause. In July 2004, Gullit returned to management with , taking over ahead of the season with expectations to restore the club's competitive edge after their previous title win in 2002. The team finished fourth in the league, 13 points behind champions , and failed to secure any silverware, including an early exit in the . Gullit voiced frustrations over the squad's quality, repeatedly highlighting insufficient player depth and transfer support as barriers to success. A disappointing end to the campaign, marked by inconsistent results and failure to challenge for European spots, led to his departure on 23 May 2005, shortly after the season concluded without trophies. officials cited the lack of achievements and Gullit's demands for squad reinforcements—unmet due to financial constraints—as key factors in the mutual parting, with appointed as replacement. This stint underscored Gullit's challenges in adapting his playing philosophy to managerial demands amid limited resources and high expectations at a club with a history of domestic dominance.

Later roles in LA Galaxy and Terek Grozny

Gullit was appointed head coach of on November 8, 2007, signing a three-year contract. His tenure began amid high expectations, with the team featuring stars like , but was marked by inconsistent results and internal dissatisfaction. The Galaxy struggled in , failing to secure a playoff spot and enduring a winless streak of seven games toward the end of his time. Gullit resigned on August 11, 2008, citing personal reasons, coinciding with the departure of general manager as part of broader club changes. Reports indicated player unhappiness with his management style, echoing criticisms from prior roles. The club initiated a rebuild following these exits, highlighting the challenges of integrating high-profile talent amid defensive vulnerabilities and injuries. In January 2011, Gullit took over as manager of Terek Grozny (now ) in the , starting on January 18. His spell lasted until June 14, 2011, when he was sacked after a 1-0 defeat to Amkar Perm, leaving the team in 14th place in the 16-team league. Club president , the Chechen leader, issued an ultimatum demanding a win in that match or Gullit's dismissal, accusing him of distraction by nightlife. Gullit maintained that poor results, rather than personal conflicts, prompted his exit. The tenure yielded no trophies or significant improvements, underscoring ongoing struggles with team cohesion in a volatile environment.

Media career and ventures

Punditry and commentary

Gullit transitioned into football punditry following his managerial stints, establishing himself as a sought-after analyst known for insightful breakdowns of tactics and player performances. He has served as a regular pundit on broadcasters including , , and BT Sport, contributing to match analysis and pre-game discussions. Internationally, he appears on Sky Germany, in the , and Dutch channels such as SBS and Veronica (formerly SAS), offering multilingual commentary in English, Dutch, German, and Italian. His style emphasizes technical depth over sensationalism, drawing from his experience across eras of the game. A notable contribution during his BBC tenure was coining the phrase "sexy football" in the early to describe aesthetically pleasing, possession-based play characterized by flair and efficiency, a term that gained traction in English football discourse. Gullit provided studio analysis for major tournaments, including ITV's coverage of the , where he evaluated team strategies and individual matchups. He also served as a studio analyst for during the , focusing on European and African teams' performances. For UEFA Champions League broadcasts, he has worked with and Al Jazeera Sports, delivering post-match critiques on high-stakes encounters. In addition to live analysis, Gullit has engaged in broader media roles, such as hosting a Dutch television chat show in 2006 on Talpa, where he interviewed figures including on topics blending sports and social issues. His punditry extends to events like the 1996 for and the , where he offered balanced assessments of managerial decisions and squad dynamics. Gullit's commentary remains active as of 2024, with appearances critiquing modern trends like high-pressing systems and youth development pathways.

Esports involvement with Team Gullit

In 2018, Ruud Gullit established Team Gullit as the world's first independent academy dedicated to developing professional players in , aiming to scout and train promising talents outside of official league structures. The focused on providing structured guidance, including and competitive preparation, to bridge the gap between amateur players and professional circuits, with Gullit serving as owner and to leverage his football legacy for esports promotion. Under Gullit's involvement, Team Gullit achieved significant successes, including world championships in and EA FC 25, as well as victories in the and eChampions League, alongside multiple European titles. These accomplishments positioned the academy as a leading force in EA FC , emphasizing talent development over direct club affiliations. In May 2025, Team Gullit entered a strategic acquisition by Team Liquid, forming a partnership that retained the Gullit branding and continued operations under a shared banner for events like the Esports World Cup, while Gullit remained a key figure in its identity and direction. This move expanded resources for scouting and competition, aligning with Gullit's vision of fostering esports professionalism akin to traditional sports academies. Gullit is featured as an Icon in EA Sports FC 26, with his base Icon card rated 90 overall (CAM/CM/ST, Netherlands, EA FC ICONS), including stats of Pace 85, Shooting 88, Passing 88, Dribbling 86, Defending 80, Physical 87; 4-star skills, and 5-star weak foot, with current prices around 2 million coins (varying by platform). A 93-rated TOTY Icon version offers upgraded stats (Pace 91, Shooting 94, etc.) at higher prices of approximately 8-10 million coins. A lower 71-rated WT Silver Stars variant is also available.

Personal life

Marriages and family

Gullit has been married three times and is the father of six children. His first marriage was to Yvonne de Vries from 1984 until their divorce in 1991; the couple had two daughters, Felicity and Charmayne. From 1994 to 2000, Gullit was married to Italian Cristina Pensa, with whom he had two children: son Quincy and daughter Sheyenne. Gullit's third marriage, to model Estelle Cruijff, lasted from 2000 until their divorce in 2013 after 13 years; they had two children, including son Maxim, who has pursued a professional football career. Gullit was born Ruud Dil in to an father, George Gullit, and Dutch mother, Ria Dil; his parents were not legally married, and he adopted his father's as a teenager.

Health and philanthropy

Gullit's professional playing career was hampered by recurring injuries, including strains and overstretching, which contributed to his in 1998 after limited appearances with Chelsea. These physical tolls from years of high-level competition affected his later playing years, though he has maintained an active post- lifestyle without publicly reported major chronic conditions. Gullit has engaged extensively in , serving as a Laureus Academy Member, an organization using sport to address social issues for disadvantaged youth worldwide. In this capacity, he participated in the 2014 alongside , with proceeds benefiting the Laureus Foundation Switzerland. More recently, in November 2023, he joined a charity invitational in , raising HK$1.2 million for youth initiatives supported by Laureus. As a , Gullit has advocated for , including through charity matches, such as the 2006 event at . He has also supported the Dutch Postcode Lottery's charitable efforts and youth development programs, emphasizing sport's role in personal growth. In 2018, as ambassador for the , he facilitated experiences for underprivileged children, including tours and match attendance.

Controversies and public statements

Ballon d'Or win and Maradona's criticism

In 1987, Ruud Gullit received the , awarded by to the best footballer in Europe based on votes from 28 specialized journalists. The award was presented on 29 December 1987, recognizing Gullit's standout performances that year, including his pivotal role in PSV Eindhoven's title win before his summer transfer to for a world-record fee of approximately 13 billion Italian lire (equivalent to about £6 million at the time). Gullit amassed 106 points, ahead of Portugal's (91 points), marking him as the first Dutch national and first player of African descent to claim the honor. Diego Maradona, then starring for Napoli and fresh off captaining to the triumph, publicly contested Gullit's victory. Maradona attributed the award not to sporting merit but to the influence of AC Milan's president, , stating, "Ha vinto perché dietro di lui c’è la potenza televisiva ed economica di Berlusconi" ("He won because behind him there’s the television and economic power of Berlusconi"). This criticism highlighted the intensifying rivalry between Milan and Napoli, as Berlusconi's ownership of the influential network was seen by some as amplifying Gullit's profile in and , potentially swaying voter perceptions amid the award's emphasis on club and international achievements. Maradona's remarks reflected broader tensions, as Gullit's arrival bolstered a side that would soon challenge Napoli's dominance, culminating in 's 1987–88 Serie A title win over Maradona's Napoli by three points. Despite the non-European eligibility restriction barring Maradona from contention until , his critique underscored perceptions of media and commercial factors in individual accolades during an era when club prestige increasingly intersected with player recognition. Gullit's on-field versatility—excelling as forward, , and defender—alongside his goal-scoring and leadership, provided substantive justification for the journalists' votes, independent of external hype.

Dedication to Nelson Mandela

In December 1987, upon receiving the award for being named European Footballer of the Year in , Ruud Gullit dedicated the honor to , who had been imprisoned on since 1962 for his role in the African National Congress's anti-apartheid activities, including sabotage against the South African government. Gullit, motivated by Mandela's prolonged incarceration amid international campaigns against South Africa's apartheid system—a policy of institutionalized enforced since 1948—highlighted the injustice during his acceptance speech, stating that Mandela's situation was foremost in his thoughts. The dedication drew mixed reactions, with some contemporaries criticizing Gullit for politicizing a sports award, yet he maintained it as a principled stand against , later reflecting that it ranked among his best decisions, as it amplified global awareness of Mandela's case and facilitated personal meetings with him post-release in 1990. Gullit's action aligned with broader activism, including cultural efforts like his contribution to a reggae track addressing apartheid, underscoring his use of fame to spotlight issues tied to racial policies that systematically disadvantaged non-whites in . Following Mandela's release and election as South Africa's president in , Gullit visited the country and met him multiple times, receiving a in recognition of his early advocacy against apartheid; these encounters reinforced Gullit's view that sports figures could influence political change by drawing public focus to empirical injustices, such as Mandela's 27-year detention under laws criminalizing opposition to the regime. The gesture's long-term impact included elevating Mandela's profile in European sports circles, contributing to the momentum that pressured the apartheid government's eventual dismantling in the early 1990s.

Reaction to blackface tributes

During the ' 2–1 victory over in their opening match of on June 16, 2024, in , , a group of Dutch supporters appeared in the stands dressed as Ruud Gullit, replicating his iconic , 1988 European Championship-winning jersey, and using dark makeup to match his skin tone. The costumes were intended as homage to Gullit's role in the ' 1988 triumph, where he scored the winning goal in the final against the . The images quickly spread on , drawing widespread condemnation from international outlets and users, particularly in the United States, where is strongly associated with historical shows and anti-Black ; critics labeled the act inherently offensive regardless of intent. One fan, a long-time supporter from known as "Rasta Ruud" who had impersonated Gullit at prior tournaments, announced on June 18, , that he would cease the practice due to the escalating backlash, stating it was no longer worth the controversy. Gullit, however, expressed no offense and viewed the gesture positively. In comments relayed via Dutch broadcaster Humberto Tan and reported by De Telegraaf on June 18, 2024, he stated, "Ik voel me eigenlijk best vereerd" ("I actually feel quite honored"), emphasizing the tribute's celebratory nature tied to his career achievements. This response contrasted with external criticisms, highlighting a cultural divide: in the , such fan costumes often aim to evoke national heroes without malice, akin to debates over traditions like , whereas American-influenced discourse frequently deems any darkening of skin taboo. Later, defender echoed a similar sentiment, stating he saw no issue with the outfits, while coach dismissed the uproar as imported "" overreach.

Views on racism and player responsibilities

Ruud Gullit has consistently advocated for players to take against racist abuse in football, including walking off the pitch without fear of punishment. In June 2012, amid concerns over at —such as monkey chants directed at the team during training—he argued that players should make a personal stand if match officials fail to act effectively, reflecting on his own powerlessness during 19 years of facing abuse without institutional backing. Gullit emphasizes collective player responsibility in combating , criticizing instances where teammates fail to support victims. Following Porto striker Moussa Marega's walk-off in February 2020 after enduring monkey chants and racial slurs from fans during a match against Vitoria de Guimaraes, Gullit expressed disappointment that Marega's teammates attempted to persuade him to stay rather than joining him in protest, likening the need for solidarity to defending a player from physical fouls. He extended this duty to opposition players, stating they should deem such "ridiculous" and refuse to continue, while calling on coaches, clubs, politicians, and authorities to enforce lifetime bans for perpetrators and enact prohibitive laws. Gullit acknowledges barriers for players in addressing publicly, noting in December 2018 that it is "almost impossible" for them to speak out without being dismissed as perpetual victims or "moaners," which hinders advancement to roles like —citing only eight , Asian, and minority ethnic managers across England's top four divisions at the time. He has urged football to lead a broader "" against by prioritizing merit-based diversity in leadership at bodies like , , and national federations, while praising athlete activism as brave provided it incurs no repercussions. In June 2020, he endorsed principles but rejected violence as a response to persistent underrepresentation. Regarding 2024 Euro tributes by Dutch fans involving skin darkening to imitate his appearance, Gullit rejected accusations, viewing them as honourable admiration for his legacy rather than malice.

Career statistics

Club appearances and goals

Gullit began his professional career with in 1979, making 100 appearances and scoring 36 goals before transferring to in 1982. At , he recorded 103 appearances and 41 goals over three seasons, contributing to domestic success including the 1984 . His move to in 1985 yielded 75 appearances and 53 goals, helping secure titles in 1986 and 1987. In 1987, Gullit joined , where he achieved prominence with 171 appearances and 56 goals across six seasons, forming part of the Dutch trio that won multiple titles and the 1989 and 1990 European Cups. A brief stint at Sampdoria from 1993 to 1995 saw 63 appearances and 26 goals, including the 1994 win. Gullit concluded his playing career at Chelsea from 1995 to 1998, registering 64 appearances and 7 goals, notably captaining the side to the 1997 victory.
ClubYearsAppearancesGoals
1979–198210036
1982–198510341
1985–19877553
1987–199317156
Sampdoria1993–19956326
Chelsea1995–1998647
These figures encompass all competitive matches, including league, cup, and European competitions.

International caps and goals

Ruud Gullit represented the national team from 1981 to 1994, accumulating 66 caps and scoring 17 goals. He debuted on 1 September 1981 against , substituting in during a 1–2 friendly loss at age 19. His international career concluded with a 3–1 friendly victory over on 27 May 1994. Gullit captained the to their first major trophy at , appearing in all five matches and scoring the tournament's opening goal in the 2–0 final defeat of the on 25 June 1988. At the , he featured in four games, including a 1–1 group stage draw with the on 21 June 1990 where he scored, as the team reached the semi-finals before elimination by . In , Gullit played four matches without scoring, captaining the side to the final, which they lost 5–4 on penalties to after a 2–2 draw. His goals were predominantly in qualifiers, with 10 in Euro qualification and 2 in World Cup qualification, alongside 3 in friendlies. Notable scoring performances included two goals each against (7 September 1983, 3–0 Euro qualifier) and (12 October 1983, 3–2 Euro qualifier), and a brace versus (14 October 1987, 2–0 Euro qualifier).
CompetitionAppearancesGoals
Friendlies223
41
91
UEFA Euro Qualifiers2010
Qualifiers112
Total6617

Managerial statistics

Overall record and notable seasons

Gullit managed a total of 211 matches across five clubs between 1996 and 2011, achieving a points-per-match average of approximately 1.55 overall, with his highest success at Chelsea and . His win percentage hovered around 49-51% in major stints, reflecting competent but trophyless results beyond his initial Chelsea tenure, often hampered by short contracts and squad limitations.
ClubTenureMatchesPoints per MatchKey Record Notes
Chelsea1996–1998831.7341 wins, 18 draws, 24 losses (49.4% win rate)
Newcastle United1998–1999521.29Mixed results; resigned after one full season
2004–2005441.77Strong domestic campaign but no silverware
2007–2008191.21Brief, underwhelming stint ending in resignation
Akhmat 2011130.92Limited impact in Russian league
The 1996–97 season at Chelsea marked Gullit's most notable achievement, as player-manager he led the club to its first major trophy in 26 years by winning the on May 17, 1997, with a 2–0 victory over at ; this made him the first overseas and first Black manager to claim the competition. Chelsea finished sixth in the that year, their highest in over two decades, blending attacking flair with defensive solidity despite a modest budget. In contrast, his 1998–99 Newcastle stint reached the but ended in a 2–0 loss to Manchester United on May 22, 1999, amid a 13th-place league finish and early resignation following a winless start to the next season. Feyenoord's 2004–05 campaign under Gullit yielded second place in the , with high-scoring games but ultimate failure to secure the title or cups, leading to his departure. Later roles at and Akhmat produced no standout results, with the former marred by a mid-season coaching crisis and the latter by poor win rates in a transitional squad.

Honours and legacy

Individual awards as player

Gullit earned the Ballon d'Or in 1987, recognizing him as Europe's top footballer that year after leading PSV Eindhoven to the Eredivisie title and scoring 21 goals in 32 appearances, followed by his high-profile transfer to AC Milan. The award, voted by international journalists, marked him as the first Dutch winner since Johan Cruyff in 1974. He was named in 1984 and 1986 by the Nederlandse Vereniging van Footballjournalisten, reflecting his dominance at and PSV, where he contributed to league successes and personal tallies of 16 and 24 goals respectively in those seasons. Gullit also received the World Soccer magazine's Player of the Year award in 1987 and 1989, honors based on global editorial and reader input highlighting his versatility across midfield and forward roles during Milan's triumphs. Other recognitions included topping the Eredivisie goal charts in 1986 with 24 goals for PSV.

Team successes as player and manager

During his playing career, Ruud Gullit was instrumental in several major team triumphs. With PSV Eindhoven, where he played from 1982 to 1987, Gullit helped secure the Eredivisie title in the 1986–87 season, scoring 22 goals that campaign. At AC Milan from 1987 to 1993 and briefly in 1994, he contributed to three Serie A titles in 1987–88, 1991–92, and 1992–93, alongside two European Cup victories in 1989 (2–0 win over Steaua București on 24 May) and 1990 (1–0 win over Benfica on 23 May), where he scored in the 1989 final. With Sampdoria in 1993–94, Gullit was part of the team that won the Coppa Italia. Internationally, as captain of the Netherlands, he led the side to victory at UEFA Euro 1988, defeating the Soviet Union 2–0 in the final on 25 June, opening the scoring with a header. As a manager, Gullit's team successes were limited but notable. At Chelsea, where he served as player-manager from July 1996 to February 1998, he guided the club to the in 1996–97, defeating 2–0 in the final on 17 May 1997—the club's first major trophy in 26 years and marking him as the first foreign manager to win the competition. His subsequent managerial stints, including at Newcastle United (1998–1999), (2004–2005), and (2010), yielded no major trophies.

Influence on football and cultural impact

Gullit's versatility across defensive, midfield, and forward roles, combined with his athleticism and technical proficiency, set a template for modern multi-positional players who prioritize physical dominance and tactical flexibility in high-pressing systems. His leadership as captain of the national team culminated in their 1988 triumph, where his goal in the final against the exemplified the adaptive, principles refined under coaches like . At from 1987 to 1993, Gullit's integration into Arrigo Sacchi's zonal marking and high-intensity framework, alongside compatriots and , elevated the club's defensive solidity while enabling fluid attacking transitions, contributing to two European Cups (1989, 1990) and influencing Serie A's shift toward collective pressing over individual stardom. In his managerial career, Gullit pioneered pathways for non-white coaches in European football, becoming the first black manager to secure a major English trophy by leading Chelsea to victory on May 17, 1997, against , a feat achieved through pragmatic substitutions and set-piece execution despite limited resources. His post-playing ventures, including punditry and coaching stints, emphasized youth development and multicultural team dynamics, drawing from his own street-football origins in Amsterdam's immigrant neighborhoods. Gullit's cultural footprint extended beyond the pitch through his dreadlocked hairstyle, which sparked a nationwide in the during Euro 1988, with fans donning imitation wigs and boosting his image as a symbol of urban cool and ethnic diversity in a historically homogeneous society. As the first black recipient of the on December 28, 1987, he dedicated the award to , recording the reggae track "" to protest South African apartheid, actions that amplified global awareness of racial injustice within football's international spotlight. His Surinamese-Dutch heritage underscored football's potential for , challenging stereotypes and inspiring subsequent generations of players from migrant backgrounds in .

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