Born Near De Kuip: Jorrel Hato’s Unique Life and Football Story

There’s something undeniably captivating about Jorrel Hato, a young talent whose journey deserves to be explored. Born and raised in humble beginnings, his story is one of unexpected twists and remarkable rise. At a time when Ajax was struggling through one of the darkest periods in its storied history—a disastrous 2023-24 season for the 36-time Eredivisie champions, Jorrel emerged as a beacon of hope. Suddenly, and just in time, he became the club’s most promising talent, offering a glimmer of light in an otherwise turbulent chapter. This is not a story of his career but one that tells you vital aspects of Hato’s background, life and career journey.

But behind Jorrel Hato’s heroic rise on the pitch lies a tale full of irony and resilience. Did you know?… He, who is now a symbol of Ajax’s revival, wasn’t always on the club’s side. In fact, Jorrel grew up a die-hard Feyenoord supporter. Born in Rotterdam-Zuid, he spent his childhood just a stone’s throw from De Kuip, Feyenoord’s iconic stadium, in a neighbourhood where the red-and-white stripes of Ajax were anything but welcome. How, then, did a Feyenoord fan transform into one of Ajax’s brightest stars? This is the story of Jorrel Hato—a boy whose love for the game transcended rivalry and led him to rewrite the narrative of his career, his club, and his dreams.

Preamble:

To truly understand Jorrel Hato, you need to dive deeper than his extraordinary talent on the pitch. His story begins with his early childhood, shaped by his family’s love and support. We’ll introduce you to his brother, Elgyn Hato, and share insights into his parents’ lives, including what they do for a living. We’ll also explore his roots, tracing back to his Curaçao heritage, and give you a glimpse of his personality and lifestyle—including how much he earns with Ajax both weekly and annually.

Our goal is to spark your passion for football biographies by sharing Jorrel Hato’s inspiring journey. From his days as a bright-eyed little boy to the pivotal moments of his early career and his eventual rise to prominence, his story is one of perseverance and growth. Indeed, this native of Rotterdam has come a long way in both life and football, and we’re excited to share every step of his remarkable journey with you.

Childhood Story:

Jorrel Hato was born on the 7th day of  March 2006 to a Curaçao father and a Dutch mother in Rotterdam. The Dutch professional footballer is one among two children, himself and his little brother, born to the blissful marital union between his hardworking parents. Now, let’s introduce you to Jorrel Hato’s Parents, persons who never gave him all the riches of the world but that spirit of reverence.

Growing Up Years:

Jorrel didn’t grow up alone—his childhood was shared with his younger brother, Elgyn Hato. The two brothers spent their formative years in Rotterdam, the Netherlands’ second-largest city. Their home was in Sportdorp, just a kilometre from Feyenoord’s iconic De Kuip stadium. Jorrel, five years older than Elgyn, naturally became a role model for his little brother, setting the standard with his hard work and dedication.

Remarkably, both Hato brothers are carving out their paths as professional footballers. As of May 2024, the youngest member of the family is on the verge of joining Ajax’s Under-14 team. Jorrel’s influence and example clearly paved the way, culminating in a proud family moment when he signed his professional contract with Ajax. In a touching display of brotherly pride, Jorrel presented his Ajax jersey alongside Elgyn, symbolizing a shared dream and a milestone for both siblings.

Early Life (Football):

As a young boy, Jorrel Hato’s love for football was deeply rooted in the joy his childhood club, Feyenoord, brought him. Growing up in Sportdorp, just a kilometre away from Feyenoord’s legendary De Kuip stadium, Jorrel experienced the highs and lows of Feyenoord (The Club on the Meuse) firsthand.

One unforgettable moment was in 2017 when Feyenoord clinched their first Dutch title in 18 years. At just 11 years old, Jorrel witnessed the celebrations and felt the pride that swept through Rotterdam. Yet, in a twist of fate, he had no idea that his own football destiny would lead him to Ajax—the biggest rivals of the club he adored as a child. After seeing this photo, fans might be wondering: Why isn’t Jorrel Hato playing for Feyenoord?

Family Background:

A key part of Jorrel Hato’s story is his father’s background in football. His dad began playing the beautiful game relatively late, at 14, in their native Curaçao. Despite the late start, he made it to the youth academy of RKC Waalwijk after emigrating to the Netherlands with his family. However, he never progressed to professional football, and that is a fact he sometimes regrets.

Reflecting on his journey, Jorrel’s father expressed pride in his son for living the dream he couldn’t achieve. In his words:

“No, I didn’t make it as a pro. Football wasn’t for me, with all its obligations. I preferred amateur football much more.”

The life Jorrel Hato is living today, one full of football dreams and success, is a direct result of a bold decision his father made many years ago. Back in his native Curaçao, Jorrel’s dad was a teenager with a clear vision for a better future. As an electrician, he knew that his opportunities in his homeland were limited, so he made the courageous decision to leave Curaçao and move to the Netherlands in search of a brighter future—not only for himself but also for his unborn child.

In the Netherlands, Jorrel’s father continued his work as an electrician, this time in full-time construction. It was here that he met Jorrel’s mother, a professional accountant, and together they built a life, eventually marrying and raising two sons. Both Jorrel and his younger brother, Elgyn, grew up in a household where their father’s foresight gave them the freedom to choose their own paths. His hard work and sacrifice opened doors for his sons, allowing them to follow their dreams—whether in football or elsewhere.

Jorrel Hato Family Origin:

Have you heard about Curaçao, the Dutch Caribbean island nestled in the hear of the southern Caribbean Sea? It’s a place rich in history, culture, and natural beauty—and it’s where Jorrel Hato proudly traces his family roots. Just like Justin Kluivert (through his father), Jurriën Timber (through both parents), and Tyrell Malacia (through his dad), Hato’s Curaçaoan heritage is a key part of his story.

Curaçao is famous for its stunning underwater world, a paradise for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts, with crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. But the island is more than just beautiful beaches—it also holds a deep historical significance. One remarkable landmark is the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, built in 1732, making it one of the oldest synagogues in the Western Hemisphere.

Ethnicity:

Jorrel Hato’s ethnicity is a beautiful blend of Curaçaoan and Dutch heritage, reflecting a rich mix of cultures that shape his identity. The Dutch footballer hails from an ethnic group deeply connected to the culture of Curaçao, where the Papiamento language is widely spoken.

Education and Career Buildup:

Education played an important role in Jorrel Hato’s early life, thanks to his well-educated parents who valued academic foundations. For them, it was essential that Jorrel complete his schooling at a reasonable level. Following this belief, Jorrel attended Preschool (Peuterspeelzaal), Primary School (Basisonderwijs), and later VMBO (Preparatory Secondary Vocational Education), fulfilling the expectations of his parents.

However, while education was mandatory, the ultimate dream in the Hato household always revolved around football. As lifelong Feyenoord supporters, the family envisioned Jorrel one day joining the club’s academy. But his parents were careful not to overwhelm him with pressure at a young age. They decided it was best for Jorrel to start small and develop at his own pace with less intense expectations.

At just five years old, Jorrel took his first steps in football with De Zwervers, a local club known for its exceptional youth coaches. These coaches specialized in nurturing young talents like Jorrel, laying the foundation for what would become a remarkable football journey.

Early Career Life:

The Under-6 team of IJsselmond’s amateur club, De Zwervers, played a crucial role in laying the foundation for Jorrel Hato’s football journey. Based in Kinderdijk, Netherlands, the club provided a nurturing environment that helped shape his early skills and love for the game. By the time he was ready for the next step, Jorrel was soaring high in his Feyenoord shirt, living the dream of every young footballer.

Starting out as a left winger, Jorrel displayed an exceptional understanding of the game even at a young age. He had the instinct to think several moves ahead—receiving the ball, accelerating, and turning open in one fluid motion. His natural ability to score goals and contribute to his team’s success earned him admiration from coaches and teammates alike. Medals and accolades soon followed, a testament to his impact on the pitch.

Jorrel Hato was one of the most active and energetic kids in his youth group, and it didn’t take long for everyone around him to notice his potential. In the Hato household, where everything revolved around football, it became increasingly clear that young Jorrel was destined for a bright future in the beautiful game.

Road to Fame:

At just seven years old, Jorrel Hato took a significant step in his football journey by joining the academy of Sparta Rotterdam, the oldest professional football club in the Netherlands. Transitioning from the amateur setup at De Zwervers to Sparta’s academy was a big change, and young Jorrel had to adapt to the more competitive environment.

From the start, Jorrel stood out. He was a head taller than most of the other boys and had an unmatched physical presence. While his athleticism gave him an edge, his technique wasn’t as polished at first. You could see the potential in him, but his growing body sometimes worked against him, leaving him frustrated and occasionally upset. Despite these challenges, his determination and resilience shone through.

Jorrel wasn’t just a promising player—he had natural leadership qualities. Confident and unafraid, he often took the initiative both on and off the pitch. He thrived under the mentorship of Pjotr van der Marel, his coach at Sparta’s Under-10 team. With guidance from one of the best youth coaches, Jorrel received top-notch football education, setting the foundation for the career that would follow.

The Tough Choice to Leave Sparta:

During his time at the academy of the Red-White Gladiators, as Sparta Rotterdam is fondly called, Jorrel Hato’s versatility was evident. Coach Pjotr van der Marel often played him in midfield and attacking positions, but Jorrel had his own vision for the game. Passionate about defending and helping his team prevent goals, he insisted on playing at the back—a position where he felt he could make the biggest difference.

One memorable day during a match, Jorrel delivered a performance that left spectators in awe. His impact on the game was so remarkable for someone so young that it became a defining moment in his early career. From that day, his father realized that his son was destined for greatness and it was only a matter of time before Europe’s top academies came knocking.

The Hato family had always hoped Feyenoord would come calling for Jorrel, especially since he had once been part of their amateur setup. However, that call never came. Instead, in 2018, it was Ajax that showed up at Sparta Rotterdam’s door with a clear intention—they wanted Jorrel Hato, one of the brightest talents in their ranks.

Initially, Jorrel’s parents were hesitant. Their son was thriving at Sparta and truly enjoying himself, so a transfer wasn’t an obvious choice. Yet, they couldn’t ignore the opportunity that Ajax presented. De Toekomst, Ajax’s renowned youth academy, was one of the best in the world and promised to offer Jorrel the challenge he needed to grow.

Although Ajax represented a rival club for the family, they put aside their allegiance to Feyenoord for the sake of Jorrel’s future. They chose to embrace this incredible opportunity, knowing it could pave the way for their son to achieve his footballing dreams.

Rising to Fame:

Jorrel’s family couldn’t have been prouder when he graduated from the Ajax academy with outstanding results. He joined the ranks of legendary defenders like Matthijs de Ligt and Sven Botman, who had also risen through Ajax’s ranks.

One morning, Jorrel woke up feeling a mix of excitement and anticipation. It wasn’t just any day—it was the day he would sign his first professional contract. With a sense of accomplishment, he knew this was the beginning of something special. His family was by his side to witness the moment, and later, they gathered together at home to celebrate, surrounded by extended family and loved ones. It was a day to remember, marking the start of Jorrel’s professional career.

The truth is, Jorrel Hato is one of the youngest players to make his debut for Ajax, with only Clarence Seedorf and Ryan Gravenberch achieving the same feat at a younger age. Before long, Jorrel became a regular fixture in Ajax’s starting lineup as a left-back, stepping in for Owen Wijndal, who had joined from AZ for ten million euros.

On 11 October 2023, when The Guardian named him one of the best players born in 2006 worldwide, it was clear to Ajax fans that the club’s much-needed saviour had arrived at just the right time. Ajax, a club still reeling from the departures of key players like Mohammed Kudus (AM), Dusan Tadic, and Antony, had struggled to find stability since the days of Erik ten Hag’s reign. With several head coaches coming and going (Including Sem Steijn‘s Dad, Maurice), Jorrel didn’t let the changes disrupt his mindset. He remained focused, choosing not to let the revolving door of managers become a distraction, knowing it wasn’t something he could control.

It was no surprise to fans when Jorrel Hato earned a spot on the Dutch national team at just seventeen years old. His rise had been nothing short of meteoric, and his playing style, often compared to that of Joško Gvardiol, made it clear that he was destined for greatness. Many believe he’s the natural successor to Nathan Aké in the national team.

As his career continues to soar, top clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Real Madrid have already shown interest in the Dutch talent who is labelled a Transfer Secret Weapon. Wherever his journey takes him, one thing is certain—Jorrel is well on his way to becoming one of the best footballers of his generation. The rest of his story is still unfolding, and the world is watching.

Family Life:

The Hato family is emerging as one of the most notable football households in the Netherlands. While Jorrel’s journey has been shaped by playing for esteemed youth academies like Feyenoord, Sparta Rotterdam, and Ajax, his success goes far deeper than just football. At the heart of his achievements lies a strong, tightly-knit family that has been his unwavering foundation and guiding force.

Let’s dive into the story of the Hatos, beginning with the cornerstone of the household—the man who started it all.

Father:

Despite Jorrel’s success at Ajax, his dad remains a loyal Feyenoord fan, holding on to the life he’s always known at De Kuip. Engineer Hato, deeply rooted in the Feyenoord community, sees no reason to switch allegiances just because his son now wears the colours of their fierce rivals.

Most of his friends are also die-hard Feyenoord supporters, and they couldn’t resist teasing him when Jorrel made the move to Ajax. One joked, “How can your son do this to you?”—a lighthearted dig that reflects the playful camaraderie within their circle.

Even so, Jorrel’s dad takes it all in stride. For him, supporting Feyenoord is more than loyalty to a team; it’s a connection to his past and his community. While his heart may beat for Feyenoord, his pride for his son knows no bounds.

Jorrel Hato may have joined what some of his parents’ friends jokingly call the “wrong club,” but there’s no doubt everyone is immensely proud of his incredible talent. Did you know that Jorrel’s dad made a light-hearted bet with him? He promised he would only wear an Ajax shirt if Jorrel scored his first professional goal for the club. That moment finally came on February 10, 2023, when Jorrel found the back of the net. True to his word, Hato Senior donned the Ajax colors, showing his unwavering support for his son.

Reflecting on the shift, Jorrel’s dad shared:

“We are at peace with that at home. I am always for Jorrel. If Ajax wins, I am now very happy. I do not hate Ajax; it is not all so black and white for me.”

His words perfectly capture the balance between loyalty to Feyenoord and pride for his son’s achievements at Ajax. For the Hato family, love and support come first, no matter the club colours.

Mother:

Jorrel Hato’s mother, an accountant, firmly believes that “everything happens for a reason.” In her eyes, it was her son’s destiny to play for Ajax, even though the family has always been devoted Feyenoord supporters. From the beginning, she envisioned her young family living in a peaceful and quiet part of the Netherlands.

Settling in Rotterdam-Zuid, just a short distance from De Kuip, felt perfect to her. It was a neighborhood where her children could play freely in the streets without worry. That decision seems to have paid off, as it provided the nurturing environment that shaped Jorrel and his brother Elgyn into the grounded young men they are today.

“Our side of Rotterdam-Zuid isn’t unsafe,” she explains. However, life could be different near the Beijerlandselaan, a street close to where they used to live. Her wisdom and focus on family values clearly played a big role in her children’s positive upbringing.

Siblings:

Elgyn Hato, a promising defensive midfielder, is carving his own path in football while drawing inspiration from his older brother, Jorrel. His ultimate dream? To one day share the pitch with Jorrel in the Dutch national team under the guidance of Ronald Koeman. While Elgyn may not yet be a household name in football as of 2024, he’s making steady progress. With a playing style and a resemblance that reminds many of Georginio Wijnaldum, Elgyn is a rising talent to keep an eye on.

Untold Facts:

In the final section of Jorrel Hato’s Biography, we’ll unveil truths you might not know about him. Without further ado, let’s get started.

FIFA Profile:

These days, it’s hard to find anyone who doesn’t admire Jorrel Hato’s talent. As a left-back, he’s been steadily improving, showcasing solid defensive skills and excellent composure in possession. Many fans compare him to the likes of Alejandro Balde and Nuno Tavares, known for their explosive sprint speed and lightning-fast acceleration. One of Jorrel’s standout qualities is his movement on the field, coupled with his exceptional jumping ability, which gives him an edge in both defence and attack. By 2024, he’s already being talked about alongside Ian Maatsen as one of the most promising left-backs in Dutch football.

Salary

For an 18-year-old just starting his senior career, earning €19,615 per week is already impressive. What’s even more remarkable is that Jorrel Hato’s annual salary amounts to over €1 million (€1,020,000) at such a young age. It’s moments like these that remind us just how rewarding football can be as a profession.

As of 2024, Jordan Henderson leads Ajax’s payroll with a weekly salary of €90,000, followed by Steven Berghuis at €76,923. Daniele Rugani (€75,385 per week) and Brian Brobbey (€57,692 per week) round out the list of top earners at the club. Jorrel might be earning less than these senior stars now, but his potential suggests his time at the top is just a matter of when, not if.

Religion

Given his parents’ roots in Curaçao and Cape Verde, it is likely that Jorrel Hato practices Christianity, most probably Roman Catholicism or a Protestant denomination, which are prevalent in both his parental lineages. However, unless explicitly stated by Jorrel or his family, this remains a reasonable assumption based on cultural and historical contexts.

End Note:

Born on March 7, 2006, Jorrel Hato grew up in Rotterdam-Zuid, just a kilometre from De Kuip, the iconic home stadium of Feyenoord. Despite this proximity, Hato made his mark not at Feyenoord but at Ajax, where he quickly became one of the most promising young talents.

Hato’s journey has not been without challenges. He has already witnessed several coaching changes at Ajax, yet he remains focused, determined, and unshaken by the surrounding turmoil. Those who know him, from former coaches to his family, describe him as calm, responsible, and dedicated to his craft.

Raised in a family deeply rooted in football, with both his parents providing constant support, Jorrel’s discipline and work ethic are clearly the product of a nurturing environment. His father, a former footballer himself, and his mother, an accountant, have always been there to guide him, instilling the values of hard work, humility, and resilience.

Jorrel’s story is one of consistent upward progress. As he continues to break barriers, moving from a promising young talent to a national team player, his future looks incredibly bright.

Appreciation Note:

Thank you for taking the time to read this version of Jorrel Hato’s biography. We strive to ensure accuracy and fairness in sharing Dutch football stories, just as we’ve done for players like Joshua Zirkzee and Tijjani Reijnders. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please feel free to reach out through the comments. We’d also love to hear your thoughts on Jorrel’s potential as a footballer and what you think of this story we’ve shared about him. Your feedback is always appreciated!