Daniëlle van de Donk Biography: Lyon & Netherlands’ Creative Midfield Star

Daniëlle van de Donk is a Dutch professional footballer renowned for her creativity, vision, and relentless energy in midfield. A key figure for both Olympique Lyonnais and the Netherlands national team, she has played a central role in some of the most successful moments in Dutch women’s football history.

Early Life and Background

Born on August 5, 1991, in Valkenswaard, Netherlands, van de Donk began her football journey at local clubs SV Valkenswaard and UNA. Her technical skill and competitive drive quickly propelled her into the professional ranks.

Club Career

• Willem II (2008–2011):
  Van de Donk made her professional debut at age 17, playing 47 league matches and scoring 5 goals over four seasons. Despite suffering an ACL injury early in her career, she returned strongly to become a regular starter.

• VVV-Venlo (2011–2012):
  She scored 8 goals in 18 appearances, helping the club reach the KNVB Women’s Cup final.

• PSV/FC Eindhoven (2012–2015):
  Van de Donk’s attacking prowess flourished, with 36 goals in 66 matches.

• Kopparbergs/Göteborg (2015):
  A brief stint in Sweden’s Damallsvenskan saw her net 4 goals in 13 appearances.

• Arsenal (2015–2021):
  Van de Donk became a fan favorite in England, scoring 28 goals in 96 league appearances. She helped Arsenal win the FA Women’s Super League and was praised for her technical quality and leadership.

• Lyon (2021–present):
  Since joining Lyon, van de Donk has made over 60 league appearances and scored 14 goals, contributing to multiple league titles, a Coupe de France, and a UEFA Women’s Champions League victory.

International Career

Van de Donk debuted for the Netherlands senior team in 2010. She has since earned 165 caps and scored 38 goals, as of April 2025. She played a pivotal role in the Netherlands’ historic UEFA Euro 2017 victory on home soil, scoring in the semi-final and being a creative force in the final. She also helped the Dutch reach the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup final and was instrumental in their run to the Euro 2022 knockout stage, scoring the winner against Portugal. Van de Donk is celebrated for her big-game performances and leadership on the international stage.

Playing Style and Strengths

• Creativity & Vision:
  Van de Donk is known for her ability to unlock defenses with incisive passes and intelligent movement.

• Versatility:
  She can play as an attacking midfielder, central midfielder, or winger, adapting to her team’s tactical needs.

• Work Rate & Tenacity:
  Relentless pressing, energy, and commitment make her a key presence in both attack and defense.

• Leadership:
  Brings experience and composure to club and country, often stepping up in crucial moments.

Career Stats (as of March 2025)

Achievements and Honors

• With Lyon:

  • Division 1 Féminine Champion (2021–22, 2022–23, 2023–24)

  • Coupe de France Winner (2022–23)

  • Trophée des Championnes Winner (2022, 2023)

  • UEFA Women’s Champions League Winner (2021–22)

• With Arsenal:

  • FA Women’s Super League Champion

  • FA Women’s Cup and League Cup Winner

• With Netherlands:

  • UEFA Women’s Euro Champion (2017)

  • FIFA Women’s World Cup Runner-up (2019)

  • Algarve Cup Winner (2018)

Frequently Asked Questions About Daniëlle van de Donk

How old is Daniëlle van de Donk?
She is 33 years old, born on August 5, 1991.

What position does Daniëlle van de Donk play?
She is a midfielder, known for her attacking and creative abilities.

What are Daniëlle van de Donk’s major achievements?
She has won league titles in the Netherlands, England, and France, the UEFA Women’s Champions League, and the UEFA Women’s Euro with the Netherlands.

What makes Daniëlle van de Donk stand out?
Her creativity, vision, technical skill, and ability to perform in big matches for both club and country.

Conclusion

Daniëlle van de Donk’s journey from Valkenswaard to the pinnacle of European and world football is a testament to her talent, resilience, and leadership. As a creative engine for Lyon and the Netherlands, she continues to inspire with her performances and passion for the game.