Stefan de Vrij, Dutch footballer

Stefan de Vrij, born on February 5, 1992, is a highly accomplished Dutch professional footballer renowned for his exceptional defensive capabilities as a central defender. He currently serves as a pivotal player for Serie A powerhouse Inter Milan and remains a consistent presence in the Netherlands national team.

De Vrij’s football journey began within the youth ranks of his local club, VV Spirit, where he honed his foundational skills. His talent quickly became evident, leading to his professional debut at the tender age of 17 for Feyenoord, one of the Netherlands' most prestigious Eredivisie clubs. During his five formative seasons at the Rotterdam outfit, de Vrij rapidly developed into a pivotal defender, even briefly assuming the captaincy, a testament to his burgeoning leadership qualities and on-field influence. This period at Feyenoord was crucial for his development, preparing him for the rigors of top-tier European football.

His impressive performances in the Eredivisie inevitably garnered attention from leading clubs across Europe. In July 2014, de Vrij made a significant move to Italy, joining SS Lazio in Serie A. His time in Rome further solidified his reputation as a world-class centre-back, known for his calm demeanor, tactical intelligence, and strong aerial presence. Following a highly successful spell with Lazio, de Vrij transitioned to another Italian giant, Inter Milan. With Inter, he has continued to excel, playing a crucial role in their domestic successes, including their triumphant 2020-21 Serie A title win, underscoring his integral status within one of Europe's elite defensive units.

Internationally, Stefan de Vrij has been a cornerstone of the Netherlands national team since making his full international debut in 2012. He has proudly earned over 50 caps for his country, a remarkable milestone signifying his enduring commitment and consistent high-level performance on the global stage. The 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil proved to be a defining tournament for de Vrij. As a key component of the Dutch squad that secured an impressive third-place finish, his defensive contributions were widely lauded. His outstanding individual displays were further recognized when he was selected for the prestigious Castrol Performance Index Team of the Tournament, an accolade based on objective statistical analysis of player performance. He also played a vital role for the Oranje at UEFA Euro 2020, showcasing his continued relevance and reliability in major international competitions.

Recognized for his astute positional sense, precise tackling, and composed ball distribution, de Vrij embodies the qualities of a modern central defender. His ability to read the game, anticipate plays, and initiate attacks from the back makes him invaluable to both his club and national team. He combines physical strength with a keen tactical understanding, enabling him to effectively neutralize opposition threats and contribute to build-up play.

Frequently Asked Questions about Stefan de Vrij

When and where was Stefan de Vrij born?

Stefan de Vrij was born on February 5, 1992, in Ouderkerk aan den IJssel, Netherlands.

What position does Stefan de Vrij play?

He plays as a centre-back, a defensive role primarily responsible for preventing opponents from scoring and initiating attacks from the back.

Which clubs has Stefan de Vrij played for professionally?

De Vrij began his professional career at Feyenoord, followed by spells at SS Lazio and currently Inter Milan in Italy's Serie A.

What are some of Stefan de Vrij's key achievements with Inter Milan?

He played a vital role in Inter Milan's 2020-21 Serie A title triumph, their first Scudetto in over a decade, and has contributed to their consistent strong performances in domestic and European competitions.

How many international caps does Stefan de Vrij have for the Netherlands?

He has earned over 50 caps for the Netherlands national team, making him a seasoned international player.

What was Stefan de Vrij's role in the 2014 FIFA World Cup?

He was a crucial starting defender for the Netherlands team that finished third at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. His exceptional performance earned him a spot in the Castrol Performance Index Team of the Tournament.