Biography
Who is Nigel de Jong?
Early life and career beginnings
Nigel de Jong was born in Amsterdam, Netherlands, on November 30, 1984. He grew up with a background in football, as his father is the former Dutch international player Jerry de Jong. He joined the youth academy at Ajax and quickly progressed through the ranks to make his debut for the senior team at the age of 17 on October 19, 2002. During his time at Ajax, he scored his first senior goal against Arsenal in the Champions League in February 2003.
Manchester City and Italian clubs
In January 2009, Nigel moved to Manchester City for an estimated fee of £18 million. Manager Mark Hughes brought him in to strengthen the midfield defence, and Nigel was given the number 34 shirt. He quickly earned a reputation as a tireless and combative holding midfielder, earning nicknames such as The Destroyer from fans and pundits alike. He became a crucial part of the squad under manager Roberto Mancini and helped the team win both the FA Cup in the 2010 to 2011 season and the Premier League title in the 2011 to 2012 season.
International career
Nigel made his international debut for the Netherlands in a friendly match against France on March 31, 2004, at the age of 19. Although he missed the 2006 FIFA World Cup due to a knee injury, he returned to represent his country at UEFA Euro 2008, playing as a screening midfielder as the team reached the quarter-finals. He scored his first international goal in a qualifying match against Iceland in June 2009, which helped secure the team's place in the upcoming tournament.
Later career and technical director role
Following his spell with the LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer, Nigel joined Turkish club Galatasaray in August 2016 on a two-year deal. His contract was later terminated in January 2018, leading to a free transfer to German club Mainz 05. Later that year, he moved to Qatar to play for Al Ahli and subsequently joined Al-Shahania in the same league.
Birthday and age
Nigel de Jong was born on November 30, 1984, which makes Nigel 41 years old today. That birthday falls under the Sagittarius sign. Nigel shares the date with 56 other famous people.
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