Former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has been admitted to the hospital and is currently in intensive care after suffering a bleed around the brain. The 52-year-old retired from professional sport in 2011 after a successful 21-year career with renowned clubs such as Ajax, Fulham, and Manchester United. Van der Sar is considered one of the best goalkeepers of his generation.
Ajax, the Dutch club where van der Sar began his career, released a statement confirming the news. They stated, "On Friday, Edwin van der Sar had a bleeding around his brain. He's currently in hospital in the intensive care unit and is in a stable condition. Once there is more concrete information, an update will follow." The club also expressed their support and wished him a speedy recovery, saying, "Everyone at Ajax wishes Edwin a speedy recovery. We're thinking of you."
It has been reported that van der Sar was admitted to the hospital while he was in Croatia. Recently, he was seen at an exclusive rooftop restaurant on the Croatian island of Hvar. The circumstances surrounding his condition remain unclear.
Van der Sar achieved numerous successes throughout his career. He was part of Ajax's "golden generation" that famously won the Champions League in 1995. He also won the Champions League with Manchester United in 2008. In addition to his club achievements, he made 130 appearances for the Dutch national team.
Considered one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time, van der Sar received several individual accolades, including Best European Goalkeeper twice and UEFA Club Goalkeeper of the Year. After retiring from professional football, he joined the Ajax board and later became the club's chief executive. However, he stepped down from his position in May to take a break and pursue other endeavors.
Van der Sar has been married to his wife Annemarie van Kesteren since 2006, and they have two children. In 2009, while he was at Manchester United, his wife suffered a brain haemorrhage, and he was granted compassionate leave by then-manager Sir Alex Ferguson.