Frank Rijkaard Biography and Timeline

Ajax First-Team Debut

Makes his Ajax first-team debut and begins a career as a versatile defender and midfielder.

Role range: 1980-1987

European Championship Title

Plays in central defence as the Netherlands defeat the Soviet Union to win UEFA EURO 1988.

Role range: 1981-1994

Transfer to AC Milan

Joins AC Milan and forms a successful Dutch core with Ruud Gullit and Marco van Basten.

Role range: 1988-1993

Rijkaard Equalises in Inaugural Super Cup

Frank Rijkaard cancelled out Sampdoria's early lead as Milan won the inaugural Italian Super Cup by three goals to one.

Rijkaard Helps Milan Overcome Barcelona

Frank Rijkaard helped Milan defeat Barcelona over two legs in the UEFA Super Cup during a period of European dominance.

Rijkaard Features in Milan Super Cup Era

Frank Rijkaard contributed to Milan's powerful midfield as the club defended its European Super Cup standing against Sampdoria.

Champions League Victory

Helps Ajax defeat AC Milan 1-0 in the UEFA Champions League final before retiring from professional football.

Role range: 1993-1995

Champions League Final Assist

Supplies the pass from which Patrick Kluivert scores Ajax's winning goal.

Champions League Winner

Frank Rijkaard brought experience to Ajax's midfield and supplied the pass for the decisive goal in the 1995 UEFA Champions League final, helping Ajax win the competition.

Barcelona Manager Appointment

Becomes Barcelona manager and begins rebuilding a side around Ronaldinho and emerging academy players.

Role range: 2003-2008

Barcelona Champions League Triumph

Guides Barcelona to their second European Cup by defeating Arsenal.