Steven Pienaar is undoubtedly one of the best footballers South Africa has ever produced, having played for several top teams in Europe.
Nicknamed “Schillo,” Pienaar began his professional career at Ajax Cape Town, where he was part of the team that defeated Orlando Pirates 4-0 in the Rothmans Cup final.
At just 18 years old, he was already hailed as the next big star, so it came as no surprise when Ajax Amsterdam came calling in 2001. During his time in the Dutch league, he played alongside football greats such as Zlatan Ibrahimović, Wesley Sneijder, and Nigel de Jong. At Ajax,
Steven Pienaar won the Eredivisie twice before joining Borussia Dortmund for one season. After an unsuccessful stint at BVB, the former winger was loaned to English side Everton, where he made 28 appearances and scored twice. Impressed by his performance, David Moyes signed Pienaar permanently for the Toffees.
He enjoyed three successful years at Everton before making a significant move to Tottenham Hotspur in 2011. Although he played in the UEFA Champions League, his time at Spurs was marred by injuries, leading him to return to Everton just a few months later.
Steven Pienaar was a joy to watch at Everton
His second stint at Everton was successful; however, injuries in his final season resulted in his contract expiring, after which he moved to Sunderland. After just one year there, Pienaar joined the now-defunct Bidvest Wits for another year before retiring from professional football.
Pienaar’s career at Bafana Bafana has divided opinions
Steven Pienaar’s international career with Bafana Bafana had its ups and downs. He earned 61 caps in two years and participated in two FIFA World Cups. Given his talent, many fans believe he could have contributed more to the national team.
He often won matches for Everton in the English Premier League but struggled to help his country qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations the following week. He retired from international football in 2012, just months before South Africa hosted the 2013 AFCON.
So, what is Steven Pienaar doing today?
He is currently the coach of the U14 team at Sharjah FC in the United Arab Emirates. Before this role, he served as an assistant coach for the AFC Ajax U18 team.
How do you rate Pienaar’s career?
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