Former Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar suffers brain haemorrhage

Chirayu Parmar July 7, 2023

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Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar — Image Courtesy: @UtdActive/Twitter

Former Manchester United and Ajax legend Edwin van der Sar suffers a brain haemorrhage while he was on holiday on a Croatian island.

Van der Sar was on holiday in Croatia. But, he collapsed and was taken to hospital by helicopter, and is staying in the intensive care unit, with the first 24 hours considered crucial.

On Friday, Edwin van der Sar has had a bleeding around his brain. He’s currently in hospital in the intensive care unit and is in a stable condition.

Once there is more concrete information, an update will follow.

Everyone at Ajax wishes Edwin a speedy recovery. We’re thinking… pic.twitter.com/M7jKs5TBB9
— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) July 7, 2023

Ajax posted a statement which said, “On Friday, Edwin van der Sar had bleeding around his brain. He’s currently in hospital in the intensive care unit and is in stable condition.

“Once there is more concrete information, an update will follow. Everyone at Ajax wishes Edwin a speedy recovery. We’re thinking of you.”

Manchester United also posted a statement for their legendary goalkeeper: “Sending all our love and strength to you, Edwin.”

Edwin van der Sar’s journey as a goalkeeper

Van der Sar won the Champions League with Ajax and Manchester United as well during his playing career. He also represented the Netherlands at the 1998 World Cup, as they reached the semi-finals.

However, he also lost the Champions League final two times with United. His last game came against Barcelona in the 2011 Champions League final. After his retirement, the Dutchman moved into non-playing roles at Ajax. However after several years, he decided to step down as CEO in may 2023.

Moreover, when he confirmed that he is leaving Ajax, the club revealed he would stay in his role until August 1 to help with transitions.

The footballing world wishes van der Sar a speedy recovery

Several fans have shared messages of support for Van der Sar following Ajax’s statement. “Get well legend” wrote a Man United supporter. While the official FIFA Twitter account wrote: “Wishing you a speedy recovery, Edwin”.

“Get well soon, Edwin. The entire world is thinking of you,” the Serie A account added.

This will be the second time that van der Sar’s family has suffered a brain haemorrhage. Almost 14 years ago, when he was with Manchester United, his wife Annemarie suffered a brain haemorrhage.