Former Bayern Munich winger Arjen Robben could make a surprising return to soccer. Brazilian media outlet Globo Esporte recently reported that Campeonato Brasileiro side Botafogo are trying to lure Robben out of retirement.
Robben retired following the end of 2018/19 season after his contract with Bundesliga giants expired. The 36-year-old had several offers on the table to continue playing, including some from MLS but decided to call it quits.
Still, Botafogo’s vice president Ricardo Rotenberg isn’t entirely convinced that Robben had completely lost the passion for soccer. Rotenberg told that the club made an approach to player’s representatives and are feeling positive about the outcome.
“For me, he was the best player at the 2014 World Cup,” Rotenberg told Globo Esporte. “Robben is my idol, a great player. There is always a risk if you haven’t played football for too long. But I tried, and he answered. He’s happy that Botafogo approached him.”
Arjen Robben retired as one of the most decorated players in Dutch history, having won Spanish La Liga, English Premier League, German Bundesliga, and Dutch Eredivisie. Robben was especially dominant in Germany, where he helped Bayern win eight national championships, including seven consecutive ones. He also has a UEFA Champions League medal and has won several individual honors.
Robben was also a prominent part of the Netherlands’ national team, helping the country to win silver and bronze medals at FIFA World Cup. He played 96 times for the national side, scoring 37 goals.
