Sir Alex Ferguson's era at Manchester United (MU) is highly memorable for fans.
Edwin van der Sar is recognized as one of the greatest goalkeepers in MU history.
He played six seasons at MU, winning four English league titles and one Champions League.
Early Life and Career
Birth: October 29, 1970, in Farhut, Netherlands.
Early Interest in Football: Started as a field player; transitioned to goalkeeper due to his skills.
Youth Clubs: Played at Forholte, then joined Norwich at age 18.
Rise at Ajax Amsterdam
Joining Ajax: Signed by Ajax in 1989 due to financial crisis and search for young talent.
Debut: Made his professional debut as a second keeper; became main keeper due to hard work.
Achievements at Ajax:
Clean Sheets: 136 in 312 games.
Trophies: Four division trophies, three Dutch titles, UEFA Cup, and UEFA Super Cup.
Golden Season (1994-95): Ajax won league and Champions League.
Move to Juventus and Fulham
Juventus (1999): Transfer was a blunder; struggled to replicate Ajax success.
Fulham (2001): Joined Fulham; revitalized his career with consistent performances.
Manchester United Career
Transfer to MU (2005): Signed for 4 million euros at age 34.
Key Contributions:
Trophies Won: Four English league titles, one Champions League, Community Shield, and FIFA Club World Cup.
Record: Longest unbeaten record in English league with 14 clean sheets during the 2008-09 season.
Champions League Success
2007-08 Champions League Final: Key player in MU's victory over Chelsea; awarded Man of the Match.
Subsequent Finals: Participated in finals in 2009 and 2011 but lost to Barcelona.
Retirement and Legacy
Retirement (2011): Cited family reasons; wife’s health was a factor.
Legacy: Retired with 266 matches for MU and a record of 135 clean sheets.
Post-Career: Returned to Ajax as a marketing director; became CEO of Ajax Amsterdam.
Conclusion
Edwin van der Sar is celebrated as one of the best goalkeepers of all time, both at club and international level. His journey reflects talent, resilience, and significant contributions to football.