Roy Makaay (born 9 March 1975) is a retired Dutch football player widely regarded for his goalscoring instincts. Over a professional career that spanned the 1990s and 2000s he established a reputation as a clinical finisher who combined quick reactions inside the penalty area with good positioning and pace.
Club career
Makaay progressed from the Netherlands to make his name in higher-profile European leagues. His club journey included spells at continental teams where he regularly led the line and played a major role in title-chasing squads. He was a key figure in Deportivo de La Coruña during one of the club's most successful periods and later joined Bayern Munich, where he contributed to their domestic success before finishing his top-level career back in the Netherlands.
Playing style and notable moments
Known for efficient finishing rather than flamboyant skill moves, Makaay excelled at quick combinations, sharp movement off the ball and a reliable first touch. One of his most widely remembered feats came in UEFA competition when he scored what remains the quickest goal in Champions League history, timed at just over ten seconds from kickoff — a moment replayed frequently in compilations of the tournament's highlights.
International career
At international level he represented the Netherlands national team, earning selection across several seasons. While not always the most prominent star in the Oranje setup, he contributed goals and experience when called upon and remained part of the national team conversation throughout his peak years.
After playing and legacy
After retiring from playing, Makaay stayed connected with the sport through coaching and youth development roles and occasional ambassadorial duties. His career is remembered for consistent goalscoring, professionalism and that headline-making Champions League strike. For further basic profile details see player pages and biographies linked from contemporary sources.