The comeback of the ex-Bayern star is perfect: One year after his – supposed – end of his career, Arjen Robben is playing his first game for FC Groningen. The Dutchman sees himself a bit away from competitive games – and is slowing down with the first game.
FC Bayern wished them every success before the kick-off: Arjen Robben celebrated his comeback at FC Groningen. As agreed, the former professional of the German soccer record champions played for around half an hour in the test match at FC Almere City, the game ended 1: 1. “I’m glad I got back on the lawn,” said Robben after his return. He actually ended his career at FC Bayern a year ago, so he was able to let go completely and the 36-year-old obviously didn’t want to.
A week ago he wanted and should make his comeback for his former youth club. Robben had trained too hard in preparation, and the ambition to get back in top form was obviously too big. The return against the PEC Zwolle failed. Robben had “exceeded the limits in his training program” that week, Groningen coach Danny Buijs explained, why the most prominent newcomer in the club’s history was missing.
Robben himself had said: “I want to get fitter before I start competitions. I had a very good week of training in which I was able to work 100 percent.” But it is still not enough. This time it was enough – at least for half an hour. So it had been discussed before. Anyone who remembers Robben’s appearances at FC Bayern will have an inkling of the meticulousness and high level of motivation with which the flank players prepare.
The 96-time Dutch international played for Groningen in his youth and made his professional debut for the club. From there he moved to PSV Eindhoven in the summer of 2002, and two years later Robben signed with Chelsea. After three years with the Blues and another two seasons with Real Madrid, he joined FC Bayern in the summer of 2009 and has played a key role in the successes of the Munich team – including the 2013 Triple – in recent years.
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