A towering Dutch goalkeeper known for his composure, shot-stopping ability and calm under pressure, Maarten Stekelenburg had already appeared at the absolute summit of world football prior to his Everton move, having been part of the Dutch team that reached the final of the 2010 World Cup.  Signed by manager Ronald Koeman in summer 2016, Stekelenburg brought experience and reliability to Everton’s goalkeeping ranks, but was never quite able to make the goalkeeper’s shirt his own.

Stekelenburg’s Everton career nevertheless began promisingly during the 2016/17 season. He initially established himself as the first-choice goalkeeper, making a memorable impact early on with a string of strong performances. His standout moment came in October 2016 in a thrilling 1-1 draw against Manchester City. During this match, Stekelenburg saved two penalties, from Kevin De Bruyne and Sergio Agüero, an exceptional feat that had only happened on seven occasions in the Premier League prior to that encounter.

Despite this highlight, Stekelenburg’s role at Everton shifted quickly.  He lost his place to Joel Robles mid-season and thereafter was consigned to a backup role. The arrival of Jordan Pickford in 2017 confirmed the Dutchman’s relegation to an understudy role, which he accepted with professionalism.

Before his move to Everton, Stekelenburg had already built an impressive career. A graduate of the Ajax academy, he twice went on to win the club’s Player of the Year award as well as two Dutch titles and three KNVB Cups. He was unable to replicate earlier successes after permanent moves to Roma and Fulham, and he was loaned out by both clubs.

Nevertheless he played a pivotal role for the Netherlands in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. As the starting goalkeeper, he played every minute of the tournament, helping his team reach the final against Spain. His performances were instrumental, especially during the quarter final match against Brazil, where he made a crucial save to deny Kaká. Although the Netherlands ultimately fell to Spain in the final, Stekelenburg’s display in South Africa remains a defining moment of his career.

Post-Everton, Stekelenburg returned to Ajax in 2020, completing a full-circle journey to the club where he began his professional career. Despite being in the twilight of his playing days, he continued to make significant contributions, including stepping in as the first-choice goalkeeper during André Onana’s suspension. His performances helped Ajax secure domestic silverware, including two more Eredivisie titles, before he announced his retirement in 2023.