Steven Pienaar, a name that resonates with fervor among football fans, especially those closely following the English Premier League and the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, throughout the late 2000s and early 2010s. Born on March 17, 1982, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Pienaar’s journey from the streets of Westbury, notorious for its gang violence, to the grand stages of European football is a testament to his resilience, dedication, and sheer talent.
| Player Profile | |
|---|---|
| Name | Steven Jerome Pienaar |
| Nationality | South Africa |
| Date of Birth | 17 March 1982 |
| Latest Club | Retired: Current U14 Coach of the Sharjah FC in the United Arab Emirates |
| Latest Position | Winger, Attacking Midfielder |
Early Career
Steven Pienaar’s football voyage kicked off at Ajax Cape Town, the South African affiliate of the famed Dutch club AFC Ajax, where his remarkable skills quickly caught the eye of scouts. It wasn’t long before he was moved to the Netherlands to join the Ajax youth academy, an institution renowned for chiselling raw talents into world-class players.
Pienaar’s technical skills, vision, and understanding of the game flourished in Ajax’s system, culminating in him making his first-team debut in the 2001–2002 season. Over the next three seasons, he would significantly contribute to the team, helping Ajax clinch two Eredivisie titles and one KNVB Cup and earning himself a move to the German Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund in 2006.
Premier League and Return to South Africa
His subsequent move to the English Premier League with Everton in 2007, initially on loan, would define his career. Pienaar’s style of play – characterised by quick, clever movements, an extraordinary ability to retain possession, and his knack for threading through-balls to forwards – made him a key player for Everton. His partnership with Leighton Baines on the left flank became legendary, providing Everton with a consistent attacking threat.
During his time at Everton, he briefly joined Tottenham Hotspur in January 2011 but returned to Everton a year later, where he continued to dazzle fans with his performances until his departure in 2016.
Pienaar Starred in Two World Cups
Pienaar also had a commendable international career, earning over 60 caps for the South African national team and representing his country in the 2002 and 2010 FIFA World Cup. His leadership on the field was pivotal in guiding the young Bafana Bafana squad through these tournaments.
In the twilight years of his playing career, Pienaar returned to South Africa, where he played for Bidvest Wits in the Premier Soccer League before hanging up his boots in 2018. His return was marked by much fanfare, as South African football fans welcomed back a player who had represented their country with distinction on the global stage for over a decade.
Legacy
Steven Pienaar’s legacy is not just defined by the accolades or his undoubtedly world-class skill set but also by his journey, character, and the inspiration he provided to young footballers in South Africa and beyond. His ability to beat opponents, create opportunities out of nothing, and play unselfishly made him a beloved figure among teammates and fans alike.
Beyond the pitch, Pienaar has been vocal about social issues, using his platform to inspire change and give back to the community. This off-field persona magnifies the respect and admiration he garners, not just as a player but as a role model.
In summarising Steven Pienaar’s illustrious career, his impact on football, particularly in the Premier League and his home nation of South Africa, will be remembered for generations. His story inspires aspiring athletes worldwide, from a challenging upbringing to footballing acclaim.
Steven Pienaar Teams
| Period | Team |
|---|---|
| 1999-2001 | Ajax Cape Town |
| 2001-2006 | Ajax |
| 2006-2008 | Borussia Dortmund |
| 2007-2008 | Everton (Loan) |
| 2008-2011 | Everton |
| 2011-2012 | Tottenham Hotspur |
| 2012 | Everton (Loan) |
| 2012-2016 | Everton |
| 2016-2017 | Sunderland |
| 2017-2018 | Bidvest Wits |