Former Wesley Sneijder has made a surprise return to football at the age of 41 after coming out of retirement to play amateur football in the Netherlands.
The ex-Netherlands national team playmaker featured for Dutch fourth-division side OSM ’75 during their 1-0 victory over Focus ’07 on Saturday.
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Sneijder, who originally retired in 2019, entered the match with around 20 minutes remaining and was handed the captain’s armband shortly after stepping onto the pitch.
Hundreds of spectators gathered in Maarssenbroek, in the Utrecht province, to watch the legendary midfielder’s unexpected comeback.
Family connection sparks surprise return
The decision to play for OSM ’75 was influenced by family ties. Sneijder’s older brother, Jeffrey, serves as an assistant coach at the club, while his younger brother Rodney is part of the playing squad.
Speaking to Dutch broadcaster Ziggo, the former star revealed the move began as a joke at the coach’s birthday party.
However, after repeated requests from the club, he eventually registered officially to make the appearance, reports Daily mail.
Sneijder explained that the main reason for returning was simply to enjoy football again and share the experience with friends and family.
A decorated career across Europe
During an illustrious 18-year professional career, Sneijder played for major clubs including Ajax, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Galatasaray and Al-Gharafa.
His most famous season came in 2009-10 when he helped Inter Milan win a historic treble, including the UEFA Champions League.
Internationally, Sneijder earned 134 caps and scored 31 goals for the Netherlands. He also helped the Dutch reach the final of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where they lost to Spain after extra time.
Although his latest appearance came at amateur level, Sneijder’s return shows his enduring passion for the game.
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