The 52-year-old was airlifted to a Croatian hospital on Friday, with Ajax confirming the seriousness of his condition. A statement from Van der Sar’s family indicated that although his condition is stable, it remains concerning, and he will continue to receive intensive care. The family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support they have received during this challenging time.
Recently Van der Sar recently stepped down from his role as Ajax’s chief executive, a move that took many by surprise. The club’s failure to secure UEFA Champions League qualification for the first time since 2009 likely played a role in his departure. Despite Ajax finishing third in the Eredivisie, behind Feyenoord and PSV Eindhoven, it was a disappointing season.
Van der Sar thanked those he had worked with during his time at the club but felt the need to distance himself and take some rest. Capped 130 times by the Netherlands, Van der Sar is most remembered for his contributions to Manchester United, where he made 266 appearances. His stellar performances in goal helped the club secure four English Premier League titles and the 2008 UCL title, notably saving Nicolas Anelka’s decisive penalty in a memorable shootout in Moscow.
Messages of support have been pouring in from Van der Sar’s former teammates and prominent figures within the footballing world.
