Radja Nainggolan, the Batak Descendant Footballer and Former Inter Milan Player, Arrested by Police; Check Out His Profile

Kapanlagi.com - In the world of football, the name Radja Nainggolan certainly resonates, especially among true fans. This tough midfielder, known for his fighting spirit, is once again stealing the spotlight, but unfortunately not for his achievements on the field. The former star of AS Roma and Inter Milan was arrested in Belgium on Monday, January 27, 2025, in connection with alleged cocaine smuggling.

Who exactly is Radja Nainggolan? Born in Antwerp, Belgium, on May 4, 1988, he is not just a professional footballer but also someone with a unique background. With mixed Belgian and Indonesian blood, specifically from the Batak Toba tribe, Radja carries a strong cultural heritage.

The name 'Radja' itself symbolizes his ancestral roots, emphasizing his identity as a son of the Indonesian nation. Let’s delve deeper into the life and career journey of Radja Nainggolan, a figure who has carved his name in the world of football.

1. Profile of Radja Nainggolan: Career Beginnings

Radja Nainggolan, a talented figure born from a blend of cultures, grew up in Antwerp with mixed Indonesian and Belgian heritage. He started his journey in the world of football with the local club Germinal Beerschot, and it didn't take long for him to explore Italy, moving to Piacenza at the age of 16.

His professional debut at Piacenza in 2006 marked the beginning of his illustrious journey, where he made 71 appearances and scored four goals over four seasons. His aggressive playing style and abilities as an attacking midfielder quickly caught the attention of the giant Serie A clubs.

In 2010, Nainggolan joined Cagliari, which became the stage for his talent to shine, before finally making his mark at AS Roma in 2014, making him one of the most feared midfielders in Italy.

2. Radja Nainggolan's Brilliant Career

Radja Nainggolan, affectionately known as 'Il Ninja', is a footballer not only recognized for his aggressive and dynamic playing style but also for his brilliant career in Italy.

Over the years, he became a pillar at top clubs such as Piacenza, Cagliari, AS Roma, and Inter Milan, with a record of 367 appearances and 48 goals in Serie A. His excellence in the game earned him a spot in the Serie A Best XI for four consecutive years, affirming his quality and consistency.

After leaving his last club on July 1, 2024, and remaining without a club until January 2025, Radja not only made an impact at the club level but also achieved success with the Belgian national team for eight years, recording 30 appearances and 6 goals, including a historic moment at Euro 2016.

Not stopping there, he also enlivened Liga 1 Indonesia with Bhayangkara FC before continuing his adventure in the futsal world by joining Hassania Mechelen in Antwerp.

3. Achievements of Radja Nainggolan

Nainggolan reached the peak of his glory while playing for AS Roma between 2014 and 2018, where he shone as one of the best midfielders in Serie A. With a burning fighting spirit, he led Roma to compete fiercely in the domestic league and European competitions.

After that glorious period, he continued his career at Inter Milan in 2018, but his journey at the club was not as beautiful as expected, with more time spent as a loan player at Cagliari.

The year 2021 marked his return to Belgium by joining Royal Antwerp, before he finally spread his wings to Indonesia and donned the Bhayangkara FC jersey in 2023. Unfortunately, despite high hopes, his presence could not save the club from the brink of relegation.

4. Physical Characteristics of Radja Nainggolan

5. Radja Nainggolan's Personal Life

Behind the glittering achievements on the green field, Radja Nainggolan harbors a colorful and winding life story. Born to a mixed family, he inherited a wealth of culture from his mother, Lizy Bogaerts, who is a Belgian of Flemish descent, and his father, Marianus Nainggolan, who comes from the Batak Toba tribe in Indonesia.

However, his life has not always been bright; since childhood, Radja has had to face the bitter reality of being abandoned by his father, and deep sorrow enveloped him when his beloved mother passed away in 2010.

As an eternal tribute, he carved two large wings on his back, complete with his mother's birth and death dates. Radja grew up in Kiel, a working-class neighborhood rich in cultural diversity in Antwerp, Belgium, which shaped him into a resilient and spirited individual.

6. Radja Nainggolan Arrested by Police

As January 2025 approaches, the football world is shaken by shocking news regarding the arrest of Radja Nainggolan, who is now embroiled in a cocaine smuggling scandal from South America to Europe via the port of Antwerp.

This arrest occurred after the Belgian federal police conducted raids at several locations, where they managed to seize cocaine, cash, firearms, and conspicuous luxury items.

Currently, Nainggolan is undergoing further examination by the authorities, adding to the list of controversies that have colored his career, where he has previously often been in the spotlight due to his lifestyle deemed unprofessional off the field.

7. Who is Radja Nainggolan?

8. Why Was Radja Nainggolan Arrested?

9. What Are Radja Nainggolan's Greatest Achievements in Football?

10. What Is Radja Nainggolan's Connection to Indonesia?

(kpl/rmt)