Former Sunderland goalkeeper Robbin Ruiter has decided to retire from professional football after a career spanning 14 years, primarily in the Eredivisie. Ruiter, who made his debut with FC Volendam in 2009 before moving to FC Utrecht in 2012, eventually joined Sunderland following their relegation to the Championship. However, his time at Sunderland was marked by a mix of form and injuries, with 21 appearances across two seasons.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57309271/Bradford_City_v_Sunderland_Pre_Season_Friendly.0.jpg)
Ruiter’s experiences at the club were notably featured in the first season of the documentary series ‘Sunderland ‘Til I Die’. Despite leaving Sunderland, Ruiter continued to follow the team’s progress, though he expressed dissatisfaction with his portrayal in the Netflix series, feeling it did not fully capture his performances.
Following his departure from Sunderland, Ruiter played for various clubs including PSV, Willem II, SC Cambuur, and FC Nordsjælland. In a statement on his Instagram page, Ruiter announced his retirement, reflecting on the highs and lows of his career and expressing gratitude for the support he received.
Meanwhile, Sunderland’s failure to secure a striker post Ross Stewart’s departure has drawn criticism. Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman is reportedly aiming to address this issue by pursuing West Ham teenager Divin Mubamba. Mubamba, despite not yet scoring in eight league appearances, is highly regarded by West Ham’s coaching staff. He has also represented England at various youth levels and was part of the team that won the FA Youth Cup last year. Although Mubamba will be a free agent in the summer, former Sunderland manager David Moyes is interested in extending his contract.
