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Tim ClerDutch footballer
Date of Birth: 08.11.1978
Country:  Netherlands |
Content:
- Early Life and Youth Career
- Professional Debut with Ajax
- Success with Ajax
- Five Seasons at AZ
- Time at Feyenoord
- International Career
- Later Career and Retirement
Early Life and Youth Career
Tim de Cler was born on November 8, 1978, in Leiden, Netherlands. He began his footballing journey at Lugdunum in Leiden before joining the youth academy of Amsterdam powerhouse Ajax at the age of twelve.
Professional Debut with Ajax
De Cler made his professional debut for Ajax on April 23, 1998, as a substitute for Danny Blind in an Eredivisie match against Willem II. That season, Ajax won both the league title and the Dutch Cup. However, the following three domestic seasons proved unsuccessful for Ajax, with the club finishing third once and winning the cup just once. Meanwhile, de Cler established himself as a regular in the starting lineup.
Success with Ajax
The 2001/02 season brought a resurgence for Ajax as they captured both the league title and the cup. This would prove to be de Cler's final season with the Amsterdam club.
Five Seasons at AZ
In August 2002, de Cler signed a three-year contract with AZ from Alkmaar. He spent five seasons with AZ, accumulating over 200 appearances in various competitions and scoring two goals. During his tenure, he helped AZ secure two third-place finishes and a runners-up position in the league.
Time at Feyenoord
In the summer of 2007, de Cler joined Feyenoord of Rotterdam, where he spent four seasons. Despite the club's struggles during this period, Feyenoord managed to win the Dutch Cup in 2008.
International Career
In 2005, de Cler made his debut for the Netherlands national team in a friendly against Germany. He participated in the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, starting at left-back in the group stage match against Argentina. He also played in one match at the 2008 UEFA European Championship, against Romania. In total, he made 17 appearances for the Netherlands.
Later Career and Retirement
In the summer of 2011, de Cler joined AEK Larnaca in Cyprus. He spent two seasons with the Cypriot club before retiring from professional football in 2013.
