Steven Pienaar began his professional football career at Ajax Cape Town, eventually transitioning from the South African School of Excellence to the European stage. Born in 1982 in Johannesburg, he developed as a winger and attacking midfielder, carving out a career across the Netherlands, Germany, and England before returning to his home country to finish his playing days.
Early Development and Ajax
Pienaar joined Ajax Cape Town after attending the School of Excellence. His tenure in South Africa concluded with a victory in the 2000 Rothman's Cup final. In January 2001, he moved to the Netherlands to join Ajax. He debuted for the club in February 2002 and became a core member of squads that secured Dutch League titles in 2002 and 2004, playing alongside notable teammates including Zlatan Ibrahimović and Wesley Sneijder.
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In January 2006, Pienaar signed a three-year contract with Borussia Dortmund. After a difficult spell in Germany, he moved to England, joining Everton on loan in August 2007. He eventually signed a permanent contract for £2 million in 2008. In January 2011, he joined Tottenham Hotspur for £3 million. His time at Tottenham was limited by persistent injuries and a lack of significant game time.
Everton Return and Final Seasons
Pienaar returned to Everton on loan in January 2012, later securing a permanent transfer for £4.5 million. During this second stint, he scored Everton's 1,000th Premier League goal in December 2012 against Tottenham. He remained with the club until his release in 2016. He finished his professional playing career with stints at Sunderland and Bidvest Wits, officially retiring in March 2018.
International and Coaching Career
Pienaar earned 61 caps for the South African national team, scoring three goals. He represented his country at the 2002 and 2010 World Cups, retiring from international football in 2012. Following his retirement from club football, he pursued a coaching career, earning a UEFA A Licence in 2019. He served as a trainee coach at Ajax and now leads the U14 team at Sharjah FC.
Fast facts
- Born: 17 March 1982, Johannesburg
- Primary positions: Winger, attacking midfielder
- International caps: 61
- Retired from professional football: March 2018
- UEFA A Licence attained: September 2019
- Current role: Coach of U14 team, Sharjah FC
- Everton Player of the Season: 2009–10
Questions readers ask
Which clubs did Steven Pienaar play for?
He played for Ajax Cape Town, Ajax, Borussia Dortmund, Everton, Tottenham Hotspur, Sunderland, and Bidvest Wits.
What is Steven Pienaar doing now?
He is the coach of the U14 team at Sharjah FC in the United Arab Emirates and serves as an international ambassador for Everton.
