Biography
Who is Phillip Cocu?
Early life and youth career
Born in Eindhoven, Netherlands, Phillip John-William Cocu spent his childhood in Zevenaar after his family relocated for his father's work. He began playing football at the age of six with the local amateur club DCS. Although youth players typically had to be seven years old to participate, the club made a special exception for him. He developed his skills there before moving to the youth academy of De Graafschap.
His progression continued in 1986 when he transferred to AFC '34. By June 1987, he had caught the attention of professional scouts and joined the youth ranks of AZ Alkmaar. He quickly moved from the reserve squad to the first team. He made his professional debut on January 22, 1989, in an Eerste Divisie match against NEC, where he played as a left winger. He scored his first professional goal shortly after in a cup match against Fortuna Sittard.
Professional club career in Europe
After his time at AZ, he moved to Vitesse in 1990. Despite a broken fibula disrupting his debut season, he established himself as a first-team regular. During his time in Arnhem, he transitioned from a winger to a central midfielder. In 1995, he joined PSV Eindhoven, where he won the KNVB Cup and the Eredivisie title in 1997. His domestic success made him a highly sought-after player across Europe.
In 1998, he signed with FC Barcelona, where he played alongside well-known teammates like Pep Guardiola and Luís Figo. He contributed to a La Liga title win and played in two Champions League semi-finals. He was a key figure for the team, often serving as captain. By the time he departed the club in 2004, he held the record for the most league appearances by a foreign player for Barcelona, a record that stood for several years. He returned to PSV Eindhoven for a second stint, where he won three more Eredivisie titles and again reached the semi-finals of the Champions League.
International play and coaching
Phillip Cocu debuted for the Netherlands national team in 1996 and went on to earn 101 caps for his country. His international career included appearances in the 1998 and 2006 World Cups, as well as the 1996, 2000, and 2004 European Championships. He served as captain of the Dutch national team during the 2004 tournament. Known for his versatility, he was often fielded in various defensive and midfield roles throughout his career.
Following his retirement from playing, he transitioned into coaching. He began as a youth coach and assistant manager at PSV Eindhoven. He also served as an assistant for the Dutch national team between 2008 and 2012. He became the caretaker manager at PSV in 2012, leading the team to a KNVB Cup victory. In 2013, he was officially appointed as the PSV manager, a position he held for five years, securing three league titles during that tenure. He has also managed other clubs, including Vitesse.
Birthday and age
Phillip Cocu was born on October 29, 1970, which makes Phillip 55 years old today. That birthday falls under the Scorpio sign. Phillip shares the date with 38 other famous people.
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