Arjen Robben
Arjen Robben is a retired Dutch professional footballer who played as a winger for several top European clubs including Bayern Munich, Chelsea, and Real Madrid. Robben was known for his explosive pace, dribbling skills, and ability to cut inside from the right wing and score stunning goals. He also had a successful international career with the Netherlands national team, playing in three World Cups and helping them reach the final in 2010.
During his time at Bayern Munich, Robben was involved in a famous incident during a training session. While playing in a small-sided game, Robben was tackled hard by his teammate Toni Kroos, who was then scolded by Robben for his rough play. The two players then got into a heated argument and had to be separated by their teammates. Despite the altercation, Robben later said in an interview that he had a good relationship with Kroos and that the incident was quickly forgotten.
Arjen Robben with Toni Kroos Photo by Christof Koepsl
Technical Analysis
Robben was a technically gifted player with excellent ball control, dribbling skills, and a powerful left foot. He had a unique ability to take on defenders with his pace and trickery, often cutting inside from the right wing to unleash a shot with his left foot. He was also a set-piece specialist, scoring many goals from free-kicks and penalties.
Tactical Analysis
Robben was most effective when playing as a right-winger in a 4-3-3 formation, cutting inside to create scoring opportunities for himself or his teammates. He was also capable of playing as an attacking midfielder or a striker, thanks to his versatility and tactical awareness.
Physical Analysis
Robben was a quick and agile player with excellent acceleration and top speed. He was also known for his stamina, often tracking back to help his team defensively, despite being primarily an attacking player.
Psychological Analysis
Robben was a confident player with a strong mentality, often taking responsibility for his team's attacking play. He was not afraid to take risks and shoot from distance, as evidenced by his numerous long-range goals.
Strengths
Robben's main strengths were his dribbling ability, pace, and his powerful left foot. He was also a hard-working player, willing to help out defensively when needed.
Weaknesses
Robben's main weakness was his susceptibility to injury, which often hampered his availability for important matches. He was also criticized at times for being too selfish and not passing the ball enough to his teammates.
Special Weapon
Robben's special weapon was undoubtedly his ability to cut inside from the right wing and score spectacular goals with his left foot. This move, known as the "Robben cut," became one of the most iconic moves in modern football.
Arjen Robben Photo by Rufus via WC
The Bottom Line
Arjen Robben was a world-class winger who will be remembered as one of the greatest players of his generation. His unique dribbling skills and powerful left foot made him a formidable opponent for any defender, while his work ethic and tactical versatility made him an asset for his team. Despite struggling with injuries throughout his career, Robben's impact on the game cannot be understated.
“Robben is the complete winger, he has everything.”
“Arjen Robben is one of the best players in the world, he’s a joy to watch.”
“When Robben cuts inside on his left foot, you know what’s going to happen, but you can’t stop it.”