The European Cup of 1970 was decided in Milan, where Wim Jansen helped Feyenoord secure a 2-1 victory over A.C. Milan. This milestone defined a career spent largely at his hometown club in Rotterdam, where he established himself as a versatile defensive midfielder capable of breaking up opposition plays through immense stamina and tactical intelligence.
Playing Career at Feyenoord
Jansen played for Feyenoord between 1965 and 1980. His tenure included four Eredivisie titles and the 1974 UEFA Cup. Beyond his defensive duties, he functioned as a primary distributor for teammates like Willem van Hanegem. His performance on the pitch earned him 65 caps for the Netherlands, where he was a starter in both the 1974 and 1978 FIFA World Cup final matches.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Managerial Ventures
After transitioning to coaching, Jansen returned to Feyenoord to manage the club to KNVB Cup victories in 1991 and 1992. His career also took him to Belgium, Saudi Arabia, and Japan. In 1997, he became the first manager of Celtic from outside Great Britain and Ireland, leading the club to a Scottish Premier Division title and a Scottish League Cup during his solitary season in charge.
Final Years
Following a final stint as an assistant at Feyenoord starting in 2008, Jansen focused on personal pursuits in Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht. In late 2021, he collaborated with Yoeri van den Busken on his biography, Meesterbrein, while disclosing a dementia diagnosis. He died on 25 January 2022 at the age of 75, with a funeral service conducted at the De Kuip stadium.
Fast facts
- Born: 1946, Rotterdam
- Died: 25 January 2022, Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht
- International caps: 65
- Height: 1.65 meters
- Notable transfers: Henrik Larsson to Celtic
Questions readers ask
Which major trophies did Wim Jansen win as a player?
He won the European Cup in 1970, the UEFA Cup in 1974, multiple Eredivisie titles with Feyenoord and Ajax, and a KNVB Cup.
What was the cause of Wim Jansen's death?
He died on 25 January 2022. In January 2024, his son revealed that he had died by euthanasia.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player and association football coach
