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Ruud Gullit

Ruud Gullit is a Dutch former footballer and manager known for his versatility as an attacking midfielder, forward, and defender.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Ruud Gullit is a Dutch former footballer and manager known for his versatility as an attacking midfielder, forward, and defender. He captained the Netherlands to victory at UEFA Euro 1988 and won the Ballon d'Or in 1987. Gullit later worked as a manager and television pundit.

Early life and background

Ruud Gullit was born as Rudi Dil in Amsterdam in 1962. He is of Dutch nationality and became known early in his career for his athleticism and technical ability.

Playing career

Gullit played for HFC Haarlem, Feyenoord, PSV Eindhoven, AC Milan, Sampdoria and Chelsea. He was valued for his versatility and played in several roles, most often as a midfielder or forward.

International career

Gullit was a long-time Netherlands international and served as captain. His best-known international achievement was leading the Netherlands to the UEFA European Championship in 1988.

Later career

After retiring as a player, Gullit moved into management, coaching clubs including Chelsea, Newcastle United, Feyenoord, LA Galaxy and Terek Grozny. He also became a football television pundit and public ambassador for the sport.

Key facts

  • Gullit was widely noted for his ability to play in multiple positions.
  • He won the Ballon d'Or in 1987.
  • He captained the Netherlands to the UEFA Euro 1988 title.
  • He played for AC Milan during one of the club's most successful periods.
  • In 2004, he was named among FIFA's 100 greatest living footballers.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Ruud Gullit?
Ruud Gullit is a Dutch former footballer and manager best known for his versatility, leadership, and success with the Netherlands and AC Milan.
What position did Ruud Gullit play?
He played mainly as a midfielder or forward, but he was known for being able to play in several positions.
What is Ruud Gullit's greatest international achievement?
He captained the Netherlands to victory at UEFA Euro 1988, the country's first major international trophy.
Did Ruud Gullit win the Ballon d'Or?
Yes. He won the Ballon d'Or in 1987.
Which clubs did Ruud Gullit play for?
His senior clubs included HFC Haarlem, Feyenoord, PSV Eindhoven, AC Milan, Sampdoria, and Chelsea.
Did Ruud Gullit become a manager after playing?
Yes. He later managed clubs including Chelsea, Newcastle United, Feyenoord, LA Galaxy, and Terek Grozny.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruud_Gullit
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, nationality, playing positions, major honours, clubs, managerial career, FIFA 100 mention.
  2. UEFA — https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/history/news/0253-0d7f3abb72ce-45e093ec673d-1000--ruud-gullit/
    Supports: Date of birth, nationality, playing career, coaching career.
  3. FootballHistory.org — https://www.footballhistory.org/player/ruud-gullit.html
    Supports: Biography, positions played, club and national team statistics.
  4. Wikipédia — https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruud_Gullit
    Supports: Dutch footballer and manager, Ballon d'Or 1987, European Cup titles with AC Milan.