Royston Drenthe, who played as a winger for both Real Madrid and Everton, was admitted to hospital on Friday after suffering a stroke, according to Dutch media reports describing the incident as a severe health issue.

The football club FC De Rebellen, which features former Dutch and Belgian players known for their distinctive and sometimes controversial careers, confirmed the news and requested privacy for Drenthe and his loved ones during this challenging time.

"Last Friday, Royston Drenthe suffered a stroke," the club's statement said. "He is currently receiving excellent medical attention. Everyone involved hopes for a smooth and full recovery. We kindly ask that the family be given the space and peace needed to support him."

Drenthe first gained recognition as a young talent at Feyenoord, where his speed and strong left foot earned him a transfer to Real Madrid in 2007. He made 65 appearances for the Spanish club and was part of the squad that won the LaLiga title in the 2007-08 season.

A varied career and life beyond football

In the 2011-12 season, Drenthe spent time on loan at Everton, where he made 27 appearances and scored four goals under manager David Moyes. After departing Real Madrid, his career took him to clubs such as Reading and Sheffield Wednesday in England, along with stints in Russia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates.

He earned a single senior cap for the Netherlands before retiring from professional football in 2023.

Since ending his playing career, Drenthe has pursued various interests, including working as a television analyst in Spain and the Netherlands, trying out a brief rap career, and opening a clothing store. He also trained as a healthcare professional in Rotterdam and remained active in community initiatives.

Looking back on his early fame, Drenthe has spoken openly about the pressures that came with playing for Real Madrid alongside stars like Cristiano Ronaldo.

"Playing at Real Madrid, I felt like I was on top of the world," he said. "But I also enjoyed the nightlife and partying, sometimes even when I had training the next day."

In 2020, Drenthe declared bankruptcy after admitting to losing millions through extravagant spending, but he insists he holds no regrets about his football journey.