RENAISSANCE MAN
It takes a great city to fulfil the ambitions of a multitalented star like Clarence Seedorf
Text: Andy Tinkler
Footballer, entrepreneur, restaurateur, philanthropist; as if being a globally acclaimed sportsman were not enough, AC Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf is managing an expanding portfolio of extracurricular projects while he studies for a degree at Bocconi University, Italy’s most prestigious business school. Now 32, the Dutch international is keen to talk about his life, career and love for his adoptive home.
What attracted you so much about Milan that you decided to make it your home?
I recently moved from Lake Como — a beautiful and quiet area where I lived for almost eight years — to Milan because we have enrolled my daughter in an international school. Now I live on the edge of Milan, and I’ve come to love the fact that it has a feeling of both countryside and city. If I go out on to my terrace, to one side I can see horse tracks and open spaces, and to the other I see downtown Milan.
What aspects of the city do you enjoy most?
Milan is a city of opportunities, very creative. And in Milan you really sense that dynamic atmosphere — I love that. With the 2015 Expo the city will get a boost, creating work and attracting tourism. I am one of five ambassadors for the event.
Lake Como
Photo: Corbis;
Digital
RailroadWhich are your favourite places in Milan?
I love the city centre from the Duomo to Montenapoleone. But as I said, I also very much enjoy getting out of the city.
What rewards has the Milan football team brought you?
Many. These years spent with Milan have not only been key to my development both as a footballer and as an entrepreneur but also to my personal development. It has been an incredibly satisfying journey.
Milan from the
Duomo CathedralI understand you have opened a restaurant in Milan.
Yes that’s right. Finger’s has been a huge success. Just try to book a table and you’ll see! The fusion of Japanese artistic finesse and tropical freshness is something unique. It is located in Porta Romana, an area within the walls of the city but very young, buzzy and trendy.
What are your plans for the future?
So many plans and so much to achieve! After consolidating my activities over the last year, I feel like the results speak for themselves. For one thing, I formed ON International, an innovative management company with a service programme tailor-made to the needs of those in sports.
Is there anything that you would change in the way football and players are managed?
I’ve always said that I am a success despite the system, not because of it. I would like to see, and be part of, the revolution that brings changes in the way the business side of football is played.
Clarence was
voted best
midfielder in
last season’s
Champions
LeagueHow do you juggle your diverse interests with a demanding study commitment at Bocconi University?
Thanks to ON International, of which I am a client myself. Yes, the company was my idea, but I put in an experienced team, left the business to them and I’ve become a guinea pig of sorts. With the management tasks taken care of, I can focus on my game and other activities.
You have also set up a charity foundation called Champions for Children. Can you tell us more about it?
Since I have been blessed with opportunities I always had a desire to give back to the world. Champions for Children focuses on education through sport. We have developed the Clarence Seedorf Playground in Almere, Holland, where I grew up, which has brought a substantial reduction in crime. We’ve launched programmes in Suriname, and now Goal for Africa, a football project linked with the 2010 World Cup.
At home with Clarence
Looking for a property in Clarence Seedorf’s favourite places without spending a fortune? While known for its luxurious villas and hefty prices, Lake Como also offers plenty of small apartments with amazing lake views. Or if you’re looking to be at the heart of Milan’s trendiest nightlife, opt for the Porta Romana area, where Clarence owns a restaurant.
Porta Romana, Milan
Newly restored one-bedroom apartment in a period building, €240,000. www.tecnocasa.com/lombardia/micn4
Porta Romana, Milan
Two-bedroom apartment available in a period building priced at €430,000. www.tecnocasa.com/lombardia/micn4
Faggeto, Lake Como
Lake-view apartments starting from €135,000. www.knightfrank.com
Tremezzo, Lake Como
Lake-view apartments available from €290,000. www.knightfrank.com