Caitlin Johanna Philomena Dijkstra is a Dutch professional footballer known for her composure, intelligence, and consistency as a centre back. She plays for VfL Wolfsburg in the Frauen-Bundesliga and is a regular for the Netherlands national team.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Born on January 30, 1999, in Breda, Netherlands, Dijkstra grew up playing for RKVV JEKA, as her local club NAC Breda did not have a girls’ section. She later joined CTO Eindhoven, balancing football with her studies before moving into the professional ranks.
Club Career
Dijkstra began her senior career at AFC Ajax in 2018, debuting in the UEFA Women’s Champions League and winning the KNVB Women’s Cup in her first season. After three years and 38 league appearances, she transferred to FC Twente in 2021, where she became a regular starter and contributed seven goals in 42 league matches. With Twente, she won two Eredivisie titles and multiple domestic cups.
In 2023, Dijkstra joined VfL Wolfsburg but spent the 2023–24 season back on loan at Twente, adding another league title and cup to her record. She returned to Wolfsburg for the 2024–25 season, wearing the number 3 shirt and making her Bundesliga debut.
International Career
Dijkstra has represented the Netherlands at every youth level, including the U17, U19, U20 (playing at the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup), and captaining the U23 side. She debuted for the senior national team in November 2021 and has since earned 25 caps and scored one goal as of April 2025. She scored her first international goal in a 3–0 win over Finland in February 2022. Dijkstra was named in the provisional squad for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Career Milestones & Achievements
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Eredivisie Women champion (2021/22, 2023/24)
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KNVB Women’s Cup winner (2018/19, 2022/23)
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Eredivisie Cup and Super Cup winner with Twente
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Over 100 senior club appearances
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25 caps and 1 goal for the Netherlands senior team (as of April 2025)
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UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 and 2023 World Cup squad member
Style of Play
Dijkstra is a modern centre back, praised for her tactical awareness, passing range, and calmness under pressure. She is comfortable building play from the back and is effective in both defensive and attacking set pieces.
Personal Life
Her father, Meindert Dijkstra, was also a professional footballer. Caitlin is in a relationship with Vera ten Westeneind.
FAQs About Caitlin Dijkstra
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What position does Caitlin Dijkstra play?
Centre back (defender). -
Which clubs has she played for?
Ajax, FC Twente, and VfL Wolfsburg. -
How old is Caitlin Dijkstra?
Born January 30, 1999 (26 years old as of 2025). -
How many caps for the Netherlands?
25 senior caps, 1 goal (as of April 2025). -
What are her top achievements?
Multiple Eredivisie and cup titles, senior Netherlands international, Champions League experience.
Conclusion
Caitlin Dijkstra’s journey from Breda’s youth fields to starring for Wolfsburg and the Netherlands highlights her intelligence, consistency, and leadership. As she continues to excel, Dijkstra stands out as one of the most reliable defenders in European women’s football.
