On this day in 1962, Franklin Edmundo Rijkaard was born to a Surinamese father and a Dutch mother in Amsterdam. Having a double nationality meant that Frank had to adjust to an unusual environment early on. In the 70s, he was one of the few black kids at school and on the pitch but on the streets of Amsterdam Old West, he found his contemporary - Ruud Gullit. As kids, both Gullit and Rijkaard dominated the street courts before they shined in stadiums Rijkaard’s professional footballing career started in his hometown at AFC Ajax, the club known for producing stellar talent. In his debut year, he appeared in 24 games and would go on to earn himself a regular spot on the team. In the summer of 1988, Frank Rijkaard played an integral part in Dutch football history. Alongside Gullit, Vanenburg, and Van Basten, Frank helped Oranje win the Euro 88 title. Following his performance in this tournament, he made the move to AC Milan that would define his career as a player. Together with Ruud Gullit and Marco van Basten, Frank Rijkaard formed the ‘Dutch Golden Trio’ and they helped the Milanese club win multiple titles. In the final years of his career, the footballer returned to lend his experiences at the club where it all started: AFC Ajax. Back in Amsterdam, he served as a mentor to the young Surinamese players on the team. After a strong footballing career, Rijkaard took the leap to become a coach. At FC Barcelona he would go on to make his mark. Over the years, Frank became known as one of the most important coaches at the Catalan club and he shined light on future stars Ronaldinho and Messi. Another achievement came in 2006, when FC Barcelona won the Champions League title which meant that Frank Rijkaard became only the fifth person to win the title as both player and coach. Rijkaard’s story is one of a silent leader who inspired others and opened doors that were closed. Whether it was him being a role model for the kids that hoped to one day make it from the streets to the stadium or redefine the meaning of a world-class footballer. Franklin Edmundo Rijkaard changed the game and we are thankful for that. Happy 60th birthday to a legend in the truest sense 🐐