Ex-Real Madrid winger hospitalized following a stroke
Royston Drenthe, the former winger who played for Real Madrid and Feyenoord, has been admitted to the hospital after experiencing a stroke, as reported by FC De Rebellen, an association of retired Dutch and Belgian footballers.
The 38-year-old, who ended his professional football career in 2023, is currently under excellent medical supervision. His family has requested privacy to support his healing process.
Stroke forces Drenthe into hospital care
FC De Rebellen shared the update on Instagram, confirming that Drenthe suffered the stroke last Friday. “He is in capable hands and receiving the best possible care,” the organization stated.
“Everyone connected to the team is hopeful for his swift recovery. The family kindly asks for respect and discretion during this challenging time to provide Royston with the necessary comfort and space to recuperate.”
Once hailed as one of the Netherlands’ most promising talents, Drenthe’s career spanned multiple clubs including Real Madrid, Everton, Reading, and Sheffield Wednesday, along with periods in Russia and the United Arab Emirates.
His energetic and skillful approach on the pitch earned him early admiration, though his later years were overshadowed by inconsistency and off-field issues.
Revisiting the Drenthe-Messi incident
Drenthe previously attracted attention by alleging that Lionel Messi directed racial slurs at him during a LaLiga fixture in 2011, when Drenthe was on loan at Hércules.
In a candid discussion on The Wild Project, Drenthe recounted, “During a match against Barça, Messi called me a ‘s** black.’ He explained that among the Argentine players, such language was common, referring to us as ‘f**** blacks.'”
He further explained, “It was difficult for me to accept that. After that incident, we never communicated again. Despite everything, I have great respect for him as one of the greatest players in football history.”
Barcelona promptly responded to the accusations in 2012, defending Messi with a statement: “Our player has always demonstrated utmost respect and sportsmanship towards opponents. We firmly believe these allegations are unfounded.”
Although the episode stirred controversy, Drenthe has expressed that it left a deep emotional scar. His recent health emergency has sparked an outpouring of well-wishes from fans and former colleagues throughout Europe, all hoping for his full and rapid recovery.