Work ethic
He was renowned for his tireless running and consistent effort throughout every match.
Versatility
Kuyt could play effectively in multiple positions, including striker, winger, and even full-back.
Leadership
As captain at Feyenoord and a senior figure in the national team, he inspired teammates with his determination.
Team spirit
He always prioritized collective success over personal glory, making him a favorite among coaches and fans.
Personal information
Full Name: Dirk Kuijt (commonly known as Dirk Kuyt)
Date of Birth: July 22, 1980
Place of Birth: Katwijk aan Zee, Netherlands
Height: 1.84 m
Family: Third of four children. His father was a fisherman and passed away in 2007.
Early Football: Began playing football at age 5 with local amateur club Quick Boys.
Club Career
Quick Boys (1997)
- Made senior debut in 1997: 6 matches, 3 goals.
FC Utrecht (1998–2003)
- 160 league appearances, 51 goals.
- Scored 20 goals in the 2002–03 season.
- Won the KNVB Cup and received the Dutch Golden Shoe award in 2003.
Feyenoord – First Spell (2003–2006)
- 101 league matches, 71 goals.
- Eredivisie top scorer in 2004–05 (29 goals).
- Voted Dutch Footballer of the Year (2005–06).
- Served as club captain and formed the famous “K2” attacking duo with Salomon Kalou.
Liverpool (2006–2012)
- Joined for £10 million in August 2006.
- 208 Premier League matches, 51 goals; 285 total appearances, 71 goals and 27 assists.
- Scored in the 2007 UEFA Champions League Final.
- Recorded a hat-trick against Manchester United in 2011.
- Won the Football League Cup in 2012.
- Best Premier League scoring season: 2010–11 with 13 goals.
Fenerbahçe (2012–2015)
- 95 league matches, 26 goals; 130 total matches, 37 goals.
- Won the Turkish Süper Lig and domestic cups.
Feyenoord – Second Spell (2015–2017)
- 63 league matches, 31 goals; 77 total matches, 38 goals.
- Helped Feyenoord win the Eredivisie in 2016–17, scoring a hat-trick in the final game of the season.
- Retired after the title win.
Quick Boys (2018)
- Came out of retirement briefly in 2018; played 3 matches.
Career Totals (Club Level)
- League Matches: 636
- League Goals: 233
- Total Matches (All Competitions): 807
- Total Goals: 298
International Career – Netherlands (2004–2014)
- Caps: 104
- Goals: 24
- Participated in:
- FIFA World Cup: 2006, 2010 (finalist), 2014 (third place)
- UEFA Euro: 2008, 2012
- Known for versatility, played as forward, winger, and wing-back.
- Retired from international football in October 2014.
Managerial Career
| Club | Period | Role | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feyenoord U19 | 2018–2020 | Youth Coach | Developed youth players |
| ADO Den Haag | June–Nov 2022 | Head Coach | Dismissed after poor run in Eerste Divisie |
| Beerschot VA | From Dec 2023 | Head Coach | Promoted to Belgian Pro League in 2024 |
- Holds UEFA Pro Licence.
- Tactically favors the 3-4-3 formation.
Dirk Kuyt is widely respected in the football world for his determination, leadership, and adaptability, both as a player and a coach.
Style of Play
Dirk Kuyt was known for his relentless work ethic, versatility, and team-first mentality. Played across the forward line and in various midfield and defensive roles when required. Nicknamed the “Duracell Bunny” for his tireless running and stamina.
Personal Life
Kuyt was married and has children, including a daughter named Noelle. He and his wife established the Dirk Kuyt Foundation, supporting disabled athletes and social causes. They divorced in 2020.
Summary
Managerial Career: Active since 2018; achieved promotion with Beerschot in 2024.
Club Career: 16 years, 807 appearances, 298 goals.
International Career: 104 matches, 24 goals.