Jaap Stam is a football coach and former player who became one of the most powerful defenders in football history, recognized for his technical excellence and leadership on the pitch.
His career peaked during his time at Manchester United, where he played a key role in the team’s historic treble-winning season in 1999, which included Premier League, FA Cup and UEFA Champions League victories. Known for his solid defensive style and tactical acumen, Stam also made significant contributions as a coach after retiring.
contour
- Full name: Jacob Stam
- Nickname: Japp
- Date of birth: July 17, 1972
- Age: 52 years old
- Gender: Male
- Birthplace: Kampen, Netherlands
- Nationality: Netherlands
- Occupation: Football coach and former player
- Height: Not applicable
- Parents: Not applicable
- Siblings: Not applicable
- Spouse: Ellis Stam
- Children: Laura Stam, Jara Stam and twin boys
- Relationship status: Married
- Religion: Protestant
- Ethnicity: Dutch
- Net worth: $20 million
early life and education
Jaap Stam was born on July 17, 1972 in Kampen, Overijssel, Netherlands. He is 52 years old. He grew up in a simple environment and was influenced by family values and local culture. Stam began playing football at a young age for local amateur club DOS Kampen. His early experience in the field laid the foundation for his later success.
Stam attended local schools but did not pursue higher education due to his love of football. In 1992, he graduated from the youth academy of Zwolle Football Club and made his debut for the club. While at FC Zwolle, he briefly majored in sports management, but later left academia to focus on his flourishing football career.
personal life
Jaap Stam met his wife Ellis when he was just 16 years old. Over the years, their relationship grew and they eventually got married. The couple has three children: two daughters, Laura and Jara, and twin sons whose names have not yet been revealed. Their first daughter was born between the 1998 FIFA World Cup and Manchester United’s pre-season training.
Profession
Stam started his career at Zwolle Football Club and later moved to many famous clubs such as Cambuer, Willem II, PSV Eindhoven, Manchester United, Lazio, AC Milan and Ajax. His tenure at Manchester United from 1998 to 2001 is particularly noteworthy. He played a key role in the 1999 Treble-winning season and won multiple Premier League titles.
After retiring from professional playing in October 2007, Stam turned to coaching. He held various positions, including assistant coaching roles at PEC Zwolle and Ajax, before becoming head coach at clubs including Reading, Feyenoord and Cincinnati.
Awards
- UEFA Champions League winner: 1999
- Three-time Premier League champions: 1997–98, 1998–99, 1999–2000
- KNVB Cup winner: 1996
- PFA Team of the Year: 1999-2001
net worth
Jaap Stam has an estimated net worth of approximately $20 million. His wealth stems largely from his successful career at elite clubs and subsequent coaching roles. During his time at Manchester United, he was one of the highest-paid players in the league, which contributed greatly to his financial success.
dispute
Throughout his career, Jaap Stam has faced several controversies that have attracted media attention. A notable incident occurred during his time at Lazio in 2001, when he tested positive for nandrolone after a Serie A match, resulting in a five-month ban. Although he appealed and had his sentence reduced by a month, the incident cast a shadow on his reputation during that period.
Another major controversy emerged when he published an autobiography, which included critical remarks about Sir Alex Ferguson’s management style at Manchester United. In the book, he revealed details of his move from Manchester United to Lazio, a move that Ferguson later regretted. The fallout from these revelations caused tension between Stam and Ferguson’s camps.
social media
- Instagram: Not applicable
- Twitter: N/A