Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Surinamese-Dutch footballer, coach, and manager

The Enduring Legacy of Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink: From Prolific Striker to Respected Manager

Born on March 27, 1972, in the vibrant South American nation of Suriname, Jerrel Floyd "Jimmy" Hasselbaink would go on to carve out a distinguished career in professional football, first as a fearsome striker and later as a dedicated manager. His family's relocation to the Dutch city of Zaandam in his formative years set the stage for his footballing journey. It was there that he first laced up his boots, initially showcasing his talents between the sticks as a goalkeeper before gradually transitioning into an attacking role – a right winger, and finally, the prolific forward he would become renowned for.

Early Career and European Ventures

Hasselbaink's senior career began in the Netherlands, with stints at clubs like Telstar and AZ Alkmaar. However, his ambition soon led him beyond Dutch borders. In August 1995, he embarked on his first significant European move, joining Portuguese club Campomaiorense. His time in Portugal was brief but impactful, especially after moving to Boavista the following year. It was with Boavista that he claimed his first piece of major silverware, lifting the prestigious Taça de Portugal in 1997, a significant achievement that highlighted his burgeoning talent on the European stage.

The Premier League Breakthrough: Leeds United

His impressive performances in Portugal caught the eye of English clubs, leading to a £2 million transfer to Leeds United prior to the 1997–98 season. It was at Elland Road where Hasselbaink truly established himself as a top-tier striker. With his explosive pace, powerful shot, and keen eye for goal, he quickly became a fan favourite and a constant threat to opposition defences. His two seasons at Leeds were marked by an incredible scoring record, culminating in him sharing the coveted Premier League Golden Boot award in 1999. This personal accolade underscored his status as one of the league's most effective forwards, a testament to his consistent goalscoring prowess in arguably the most demanding domestic league in the world.

A Spanish Sojourn with Atlético Madrid

Following his stellar period at Leeds, Jimmy Hasselbaink made a high-profile move to Spanish giants Atlético Madrid in the same year, commanding a substantial fee of £10 million. His time in the Spanish capital was a mix of personal brilliance and team struggles. Despite the club's unexpected relegation from La Liga during his tenure, Hasselbaink continued to demonstrate his remarkable goalscoring ability, even leading Atlético to the final of the Copa del Rey. This period showcased his resilience and individual quality, proving he could perform at the highest level regardless of his team's fortunes.

The Glory Years at Chelsea

Hasselbaink's journey brought him back to the Premier League in May 2000, signing for Chelsea in a then-club record deal worth £15 million. This move marked the beginning of his most celebrated spell in English football. He wasted no time in making an impact, once again leading the league in scoring during his inaugural season at Stamford Bridge, earning him a second Premier League Golden Boot. His powerful strikes and crucial goals were instrumental in Chelsea's rise, helping them reach the 2002 FA Cup Final and, in the 2003–04 season, secure a then-club record second-place finish in the Premier League – his career-highest league placement. These were truly his glory days, solidifying his reputation as one of the Premier League's most feared strikers.

Later Playing Career and International Recognition

After his impactful period at Chelsea, Hasselbaink moved to Middlesbrough on a free transfer in July 2004. He continued to play a vital role, notably featuring in the final of the UEFA Cup in 2006, another significant European showpiece event. Following his release, he signed with Charlton Athletic in July 2006, before joining Cardiff City in August 2007. His final professional match saw him play on the losing side in the 2008 FA Cup Final before he ultimately hung up his boots at the end of that season, concluding a remarkable playing career that spanned over a decade.

Beyond his club exploits, Hasselbaink also proudly represented the Netherlands national team, earning 23 caps and scoring nine goals during a four-year international career. A highlight was his participation in the prestigious 1998 FIFA World Cup, where he contributed to his nation's campaign on the global stage.

Transition to Management: From Belgium to Burton Albion

The call of football proved too strong to ignore, and in May 2013, Jimmy Hasselbaink embarked on his managerial journey, taking the reins at Royal Antwerp in the Belgian Second Division for a single season. His return to English football management came in November 2014 when he was appointed manager of Burton Albion. This proved to be a pivotal moment in his coaching career. In his very first season, he masterminded Burton Albion's historic first-ever promotion to League One, guiding them to the League Two championship – a testament to his leadership and tactical acumen in the challenging lower leagues of English football.

His success at Burton earned him a move to Queens Park Rangers (QPR) in the Championship in December 2015. Managing in the Championship presented new challenges, and he remained at the helm for 11 months before departing in November 2016. He later took charge of League One club Northampton Town from September 2017 to April 2018. In a familiar and welcome return, Jimmy Hasselbaink was reappointed manager of Burton Albion on New Year's Day 2021, marking the second time he has led the club, showcasing a strong bond and mutual respect with the Brewers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink

Who is Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink?

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink is a Dutch professional football manager and a highly respected former player, renowned for his prolific goalscoring career primarily in England and Spain.

When and where was he born?

He was born on March 27, 1972, in Suriname, and later moved to Zaandam, Netherlands, where he began his football journey.

What position did he play?

He primarily played as a forward, though he started his career as a goalkeeper and later played as a right winger before settling into his most famous role as a striker.

What clubs is he most famous for playing with?

Hasselbaink is most famous for his impactful spells with Leeds United, Atlético Madrid, and particularly Chelsea, where he became a club record signing and a two-time Premier League Golden Boot winner.

What major awards and honours did he achieve as a player?

He won the Taça de Portugal with Boavista in 1997 and famously secured the Premier League Golden Boot twice, in 1999 with Leeds United and again in 2001 with Chelsea. He also reached the Copa del Rey final with Atlético Madrid, and the FA Cup and UEFA Cup finals with Chelsea and Middlesbrough respectively.

Did he play for his national team?

Yes, he represented the Netherlands national team, scoring nine goals in 23 matches and participating in the 1998 FIFA World Cup.

What clubs has he managed?

As a manager, he has led Royal Antwerp, Queens Park Rangers, Northampton Town, and most notably, has had two stints with Burton Albion, leading them to a League Two title and promotion to League One in his first tenure.

What is his current role?

As of his second appointment on New Year's Day 2021, he is currently the manager of League One club Burton Albion.