Edwin van der Sar is one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history. His career spanned over two decades, and he played for some of Europe’s biggest clubs. His calmness, leadership, and shot-stopping ability made him a legend.
But what made him special? Why is he still remembered as one of the best? Let’s take a closer look at his journey, his impact, and his legacy.
Early Years in the Netherlands
Van der Sar was born in Voorhout, Netherlands, in 1970. As a young player, he joined VV Noordwijk, a small local club. His talent was clear from the start. Ajax, the biggest club in the Netherlands, quickly noticed him.
In 1990, he signed for Ajax. He would go on to become one of their most important players.
Ajax: The First Big Break
Van der Sar made his Ajax first-team debut in 1991. Over the next few years, he became the club’s undisputed number one. His shot-stopping ability and confidence with the ball at his feet made him stand out.
His biggest achievement at Ajax came in 1995. The team, led by Louis van Gaal, won the UEFA Champions League. They defeated AC Milan in the final, with Van der Sar keeping a clean sheet.
During his time at Ajax, he won:
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4 Eredivisie titles
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3 KNVB Cups
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1 Champions League
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1 UEFA Cup
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1 Intercontinental Cup
After nearly a decade in Amsterdam, it was time for a new challenge.
A Brief Stop at Juventus
In 1999, Van der Sar moved to Juventus. Many expected him to dominate in Italy. However, things didn’t go as planned. Juventus struggled, and in 2001, they signed Gianluigi Buffon as their new goalkeeper.
This meant Van der Sar had to leave. It was a setback, but he didn’t give up. Instead, he found a new home in England.
Fulham: A Surprising Move
Instead of joining another European giant, Van der Sar signed for Fulham in 2001. Many were shocked. Why would a Champions League winner go to a mid-table English club?
The answer was simple: he wanted to play regularly.
At Fulham, he proved his quality. He played four solid seasons, making incredible saves week after week. His performances caught the attention of a Premier League giant.
In 2005, at the age of 34, he finally got his big move.
Manchester United: The Perfect Fit
Sir Alex Ferguson had been searching for a top goalkeeper since Peter Schmeichel left in 1999. After several failed signings, he found the perfect man in Van der Sar.
Even though he was already in his mid-30s, Van der Sar became United’s first-choice keeper. His experience, composure, and leadership transformed the defense.
Trophies and Glory
Van der Sar’s arrival helped United return to the top. He won:
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4 Premier League titles
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3 League Cups
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1 Champions League
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1 FIFA Club World Cup
One of his greatest moments came in the 2008 Champions League final. Facing Chelsea, the game went to penalties. With the score tied, he saved Nicolas Anelka’s penalty, winning United the trophy.
His influence on the team was massive. Even as he approached 40, he remained one of the best in the world.
A Leader On and Off the Pitch
Edwin van der Sar was more than just a great shot-stopper. He was a leader. His ability to organize the defense helped United stay solid at the back.
Unlike many goalkeepers, he was also calm under pressure. He rarely made mistakes, and his teammates trusted him completely.
Another key strength was his ability with the ball. He was one of the first goalkeepers comfortable with passing. This allowed United to build from the back, a style that later became standard in modern football.
International Career with the Netherlands
Van der Sar played for the Netherlands national team for over a decade. He earned 130 caps, making him the country’s most-capped goalkeeper.
He played in four European Championships and two World Cups. Though the Dutch never won a major trophy during his time, Van der Sar always performed at the highest level.
His last tournament was Euro 2008. After that, he retired from international football, but his legacy remained.
Retirement and Post-Football Career
In 2011, at the age of 40, Van der Sar played his final match. His last game was the Champions League final against Barcelona. Though United lost, his career ended at the highest level.
After retiring, he remained involved in football. He took on a management role at Ajax, eventually becoming their CEO. Under his leadership, Ajax rebuilt its reputation, producing top talents like Frenkie de Jong and Matthijs de Ligt.
Why Was He Special?
Edwin van der Sar wasn’t just another goalkeeper. He had qualities that made him stand out:
1. Shot-Stopping Ability
His reflexes were incredible. He made stunning saves look easy.
2. Leadership
He organized his defense and inspired confidence in his teammates.
3. Composure
Even in the biggest matches, he stayed calm. This helped his teams in pressure situations.
4. Distribution
He was one of the first goalkeepers comfortable passing the ball. This made him ahead of his time.
Memorable Moments
1. Champions League Final 1995
Edwin van der Sar kept a clean sheet as Ajax defeated AC Milan to win the trophy.
2. Champions League Final 2008
His penalty save against Anelka won Manchester United the title.
3. Breaking the Clean Sheet Record
In 2008-09, he went 1,311 minutes without conceding a goal. This remains a Premier League record.
Legacy and Influence
Van der Sar’s influence on modern goalkeeping is huge. Today, goalkeepers need to be good with their feet. He was one of the first to do it at the highest level.
Many top keepers, like Manuel Neuer and Alisson Becker, have followed in his footsteps. His calmness, leadership, and skill set the standard for future generations.
Final Thoughts
Edwin van der Sar wasn’t just a great goalkeeper. He was a legend. His career spanned over 20 years, and he won everything there was to win.
From Ajax to Juventus, from Fulham to Manchester United, he left a mark everywhere he played. Even after retirement, he continues to shape football as a leader at Ajax.
His name will always be remembered among the greatest goalkeepers of all time.
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