Kees Van Wonderen

Kees Van Wonderen

The Ultimate Guide to Kees Van Wonderen

Who is Kees Van Wonderen?

Kees van Wonderen is a former football player and current coach who was born on January 12, 1969, in Rhenen, Netherlands. He is best known for his time as a midfielder for PSV Eindhoven and the Netherlands national team, and for his success as a manager in the Dutch Eredivisie with Go Ahead Eagles and PEC Zwolle.

Playing Career

Van Wonderen began his playing career with amateur club WDS in Rhenen before joining the youth academy of PSV Eindhoven in 1988. He made his first-team debut in 1990 and went on to become a key player for the club, helping them win the Eredivisie title five times and the KNVB Cup twice. Van Wonderen also represented the Netherlands national team on 31 occasions, playing in the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the 2000 UEFA European Championship.

Managerial Career

After retiring as a player in 2005, Van Wonderen began his managerial career with Go Ahead Eagles in the Eerste Divisie. He led the club to promotion to the Eredivisie in his first season in charge and remained with the club for three seasons before joining PEC Zwolle in 2010.

PEC Zwolle Success

Van Wonderen enjoyed great success at PEC Zwolle, leading the club to their first major trophy in 2014 when they won the KNVB Cup. He also guided the club to the Europa League group stages in 2014-15 and 2015-16. Van Wonderen left PEC Zwolle in 2017 after seven successful seasons.

Return to Vitesse

After a short spell as manager of NEC Nijmegen, Van Wonderen returned to his former club Vitesse in 2019. He has since led the club to the KNVB Cup final in 2020 and has consistently guided them into the top half of the Eredivisie table.

Management Style

Van Wonderen is known for his attacking style of play and his emphasis on possession football. He is also known for his ability to get the best out of young players, having helped develop players such as Memphis Depay and Davy Klaassen during his time at PEC Zwolle.

Conclusion

Kees Van Wonderen is one of the most respected managers in the Netherlands. He has a proven track record of success at both club and international level, and is known for his attacking style of play and his ability to develop young players.