Phillip John-William Cocu, born in 1970 in Eindhoven, established a career as a versatile professional footballer and manager.
Early Professional Development
Raised in Zevenaar, Cocu began his youth training at DCS before joining the youth academies of De Graafschap, AFC '34, and eventually AZ. He debuted professionally on 22 January 1989 for AZ against NEC. Following a transfer to Vitesse in 1990, his development was initially hindered by a broken fibula. However, coach Herbert Neumann shifted him from left winger to a central midfield role in 1991, where he matured into a key player.
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In 1995, Cocu joined PSV, securing both the KNVB Cup and the Eredivisie title by 1997. He later transitioned to Barcelona in 1998, where he remained until 2004, serving as club captain and setting a record for league appearances by a foreign player. During this time, he contributed to a La Liga title in 1999 and two Champions League semi-final appearances. He returned to PSV for a second stint, adding three more Eredivisie titles to his collection.
Transition to Management
Following a final playing season at Al Jazira, Cocu moved into coaching. He served as an assistant for the Netherlands national team under Bert van Marwijk from 2008 to 2012. Concurrently, he joined the PSV staff, eventually taking charge as manager in 2013. During his five-year tenure at the club, he secured three league titles. Most recently, he managed the club Vitesse.
Fast facts
- Born: 1970, Eindhoven
- Citizenship: Kingdom of the Netherlands
- Professional debut: 22 January 1989
- International caps: 101
- Key positions: Midfielder, defender, winger, forward
- Primary clubs: AZ, Vitesse, PSV, Barcelona, Al Jazira
Questions readers ask
How many international appearances did Phillip Cocu make?
He earned 101 caps for the Netherlands national team.
Which clubs did Cocu manage after his playing career?
He served as manager for PSV and Vitesse.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player and association football coach
