Biography

Arjen became a symbol of Chelsea's increasing power on rejecting a summer move to Old Trafford in favour of one to Stamford Bridge.

Left-footed but able to play on either flank or as supporting striker, Euro 2004 provided a preview for Chelsea fans of the young international's dribbling skills and dangerous crossing as he proved one of Holland's most influential players on their way to the semi-finals. 

Arjen played his first Dutch League football at the age of 16 for Groningen and was soon snapped up by PSV although he was loaned back to his former club for a year. A first international cap came in April 2003 and despite injury spoiling the second half of last season at PSV, he recovered in time for Euro 2004 having already agreed to join Chelsea for the next season in March.

Unfortunately, a dreadful foul by Roma's Olivier Dacourt in a pre-season friendly caused damage to Arjen's foot, forcing him to miss the opening action at his new club. When he returned in late October his impact could not have been more stunning as his skills and searing pace cut teams to ribbons with goals at one point scored in four consecutive games.

His arrival helped Chelsea hit top form and he was named Premiership Player of November, already installed as one of the League's top stars.  

Unfortunately, two further injuries caused by over-physical opponents meant the first Chelsea season was not quite the crowning glory it once seemed like being. Defenders everywhere dread his return.

Player Info

Date of Birth: 23 Jan 1984

Height: 5 11

Signed: 01 Jul 2004

Previous clubs: FC Groningen, PSV Eindhoven (£9,000,000)