Internet Desk: The name Kluivert is one of the most iconic in the past 25 years of Dutch and European football – and on Sunday it was reborn.
Justin Kluivert, 17, came on to make his professional debut for Ajax in their 3-1 Eredivise victory over PEC Zwolle.
He follows in the footsteps of his father Patrick, who made his debut for the Dutch giants too, before going on to have a glittering career which included a Champions League win with Ajax, a La Liga title with Barcelona, and a year in the Premier League with Newcastle United.
He also had a starring role up front for Holland in several major tournaments.
Kluivert senior was not there to watch the game as he was busy in his role as sporting director at Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint Germain.
He had instead been at PSG’s 1-0 league victory away to Rennes, but had time to congratulate his son via Instagram.
Posting a picture of Justin celebrating one of Ajax’s goals, he wrote: ‘Today was “THE DAY” my son made his REAL debut, words can’t describe how proud I am off [sic] him.’
The teenager has made a good start in matching his father’s legacy, having already bested him in one aspect by playing aged 17 – Patrick did not make his debut until he was 18.
Kluivert junior replaced Amin Younes six minutes before half-time in Zwolle, and helped Ajax on their way to a win via a double from Hakim Ziyech and a Lasse Schone penalty.
He too took to Instagram after the game to celebrate his professional bow, posting: ’15-01-2017, day to remember.’
Ajax are second in Eredivisie, five points behind leaders Feyenoord.