Former Reading winger Royston Drenthe has been hospitalised after suffering a stroke, according to a statement from FC de Rebellen, the organisation he currently represents.

The 38-year-old, who also played for Real Madrid and Everton, was admitted to hospital on Friday, October 17, and is now receiving medical care.

In a statement, FC de Rebellen said:

“Last Friday, Royston Drenthe suffered a stroke. Drenthe is currently receiving good care and is in good hands. The team and those involved hope for a speedy recovery.”

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Career Overview

Drenthe began his professional career with Feyenoord before securing a high-profile move to Real Madrid in 2007, where he spent three seasons. After falling out of favour in 2009/10, he joined Hércules CF on loan, followed by a move to Everton in 2011.

During his time at Goodison Park, Drenthe scored four goals in 27 appearances for the Merseyside club.

He permanently left Real Madrid in 2012, later signing for Alania Vladikavkaz in Russia before joining Reading FC for the 2013/14 Championship season, following the club’s relegation from the Premier League.

Drenthe made 24 appearances and scored two goals for Reading, finding the net in back-to-back matches against Brighton & Hove Albion and Leeds United in March 2014.

Reading FC shared a message of support following the news:

“Everyone at Reading Football Club wishes former Royal Royston Drenthe a speedy recovery after he was taken ill on Friday. Get well soon, Royston.”

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Later Career and Retirement

After leaving Reading, Drenthe joined Sheffield Wednesday on loan before moving permanently to Erciyesspor in Turkey in 2015. He went on to play for Baniyas (UAE), Sparta Rotterdam, Kozakken Boys, Racing Murcia, and Real Murcia, before announcing his retirement in 2023.

The former Dutch international also earned one senior cap for the Netherlands, appearing for his country in 2010.