Marc Overmars

Marc Overmars was one of the most lethal wingers of his generation, combining explosive speed, precise dribbling and efficient finishing. A native of Emst in the Netherlands, he built a distinguished career at Ajax, Arsenal and Barcelona, being a key player in teams that dominated European football in the 1990s and 2000s. At Ajax under Louis van Gaal, he was part of the golden generation that won the Champions League in 1995. His transfer to Arsenal in 1997 for around £7 million proved to be one of the greatest deals of the era: the Dutchman became one of the most feared players in the Premier League, with a decisive goal at Old Trafford that sealed the English title in 1997-98. At Barcelona, Overmars' career was tragically limited by serious knee injuries. Nevertheless, his contribution to Dutch and European football is undeniable. After retiring, he became technical director of Ajax, the club where he had shone as a player.