Former Real Madrid and Everton star, Royston Drenthe, has been hospitalised after reportedly suffering a stroke.
The 38-year-old former Netherlands international was admitted to hospital on Friday, according to FC de Rebellen, an agency representing retired footballers including Drenthe.
In a statement, the agency said: “Last Friday, Royston Drenthe suffered a stroke. Drenthe is currently receiving good care and is in good hands. The team and those involved hope for a speedy recovery.”
Drenthe began his professional career with Feyenoord before sealing a high-profile move to Real Madrid in 2007, where he won the La Liga title a year later. He later featured for several clubs, including a loan spell at Everton during the 2011–12 season, and also played for Reading and Sheffield Wednesday in England.
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Everton sent a message of support via X, formerly Twitter, writing: “Everyone at Everton wishes Royston Drenthe a full and speedy return to full health after reports he’s been taken to hospital.”
The development comes just a week after Drenthe made headlines when former teammate Ryan Babel accused him of being a “tenant from hell,” alleging that Drenthe caused problems while renting his apartment to help a friend.
Messages of goodwill have since poured in from fans and ex-teammates around the world, all wishing the former Real Madrid and Everton winger a swift and complete recovery.