Toby Alderweireld, a name synonymous with defensive prowess, began his footballing journey in the Belgian town of Wilrijk on March 2nd, 1989. This journey, like many others, started at a young age, with Alderweireld honing his skills in the esteemed youth academy of Ajax Amsterdam.
This period, spanning nine years, witnessed him blossom into a promising young talent, making a remarkable 186 appearances for the Dutch giants and scoring 15 goals. His contributions were recognized with three Eredivisie titles and one Dutch Cup, solidifying his status as a key player for Ajax.
Alderweireld’s talent was not lost on the club, as he was awarded the prestigious “Ajax Talent of the Year” title in 2010. This accolade, also won by teammates Jan Vertonghen and Christian Eriksen, highlighted his burgeoning potential.
Representing Belgium with Pride
Alderweireld’s journey didn’t stop at club level. He climbed the ranks of the Belgian national team, representing his country at every level, from Under-15 to Under-21. This progression culminated in his senior international debut in 2009.
He went on to feature in prestigious tournaments like the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, Euro 2016, and the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where Belgium achieved its best-ever World Cup finish, securing a third-place position.
A Move to Spain and a Championship Title
In 2013, Alderweireld’s career took a new turn, as he joined the Spanish giants, Atletico Madrid. This move saw him become part of a championship-winning squad, claiming the La Liga title in a dramatic season finale.
Adding to the excitement, Alderweireld also reached the Champions League final in the same year, showcasing his adaptability and ability to perform on the biggest stage.
New Horizons in England: Southampton and Tottenham
The lure of English football drew Alderweireld next, as he joined Southampton on loan during the 2014/15 season. This temporary move paved the way for his transfer to Tottenham Hotspur the following season.
His arrival at Spurs ignited a successful period, with Alderweireld quickly establishing himself as a pivotal figure in the team’s defense. This was reflected in the accolades he received, including the “One Hotspur Members’ Player of the Season” and “Supporters’ Clubs’ Player of the Season” awards in 2015/16.
His impressive form also earned him a place in the prestigious PFA Premier League Team of the Year, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s best defenders.
A Dominant Force at Tottenham
Alderweireld’s impact on Tottenham was evident in his consistent performance. He played every minute of every game for the club in the Europa League and Premier League during the 2015/16 season, missing only a few minutes at the end of a draw against Chelsea.
His defensive solidity was further emphasized by his ability to contribute offensively, scoring four goals in the Premier League, all at home, against top teams like Manchester City, West Ham, Arsenal, and Manchester United.
His journey at Tottenham continued with remarkable consistency, as he started 12 of 13 games in their historic run to the UEFA Champions League final in Madrid in 2018/19. This feat was particularly noteworthy, as it surpassed the number of starts by any other player in the Spurs squad.
He also shared the record for most Premier League starts for Tottenham in that season, with 33 appearances, equaling the number of starts made by Hugo Lloris.
A Commitment to Tottenham
In December 2019, Alderweireld solidified his commitment to Tottenham Hotspur by signing a contract extension that secured his services until 2023. This demonstrated his belief in the club’s future and his dedication to achieving success with the team.
Toby Alderweireld’s journey is a testament to hard work, dedication, and unwavering talent. He has risen from a promising young talent to become a respected and influential defender, captivating fans with his exceptional skills, unwavering determination, and infectious passion for the beautiful game.
