📅 July 2, 2025
At just 23 years old, Roviën Ostiana has already etched his name into Aruban football history. As the national team’s all-time leading goalscorer, Ostiana is not only rewriting records but also redefining the sporting identity of this Caribbean island.
In an exclusive interview with Attacking Football, the young star shares his thoughts on representing Aruba, the emotional highs and lows of international play, and his ambitions to return to UK football, where his journey once began.
🇦🇼 Leading a Nation with Quiet Pride
Despite his remarkable achievement, Roviën speaks with humility.
“It’s a huge honour,” he says. “To be Aruba’s all-time top scorer at 23 is something I never imagined so early. I’m grateful to my teammates and coaches—this is a team effort. But it’s just the beginning. I still have so much more to give.”
🧤 From England to Aruba: The Journey So Far
Raised in the Dutch football system, Ostiana’s career has already included stints at Brentford, QPR, and Cambridge United. After excelling with FC Volendam in the Netherlands, he’s now preparing for what he hopes is a return to the English football scene—a move that would mark a full-circle moment in his career.
“There’s still a sense of unfinished business in England,” he notes, signaling his ambition to grow in one of football’s most competitive arenas.
🎽 The First Call-Up: A Moment to Remember
Roviën recalls the life-changing moment he was first called up to the Aruban national team.
“I was 21, playing well at Volendam. When I got the message, I was stunned. I called my mum right away—she was so proud.”
Wearing the national jersey for the first time was deeply emotional for him.
“I felt the presence of my great-grandmother and my late friend Caldrich. They always believed this day would come. Standing for the anthem, I knew I was doing it for them.”
⚽ The Rise of Aruban Football
Roviën emphasizes that while Aruba may be a small nation, its football culture is rich with passion.
“We grew up playing in the streets with rocks as goalposts. The love for the game is deep,” he explains.
He’s also noticed a positive shift in recent years:
- Improved coaching and player development
- Better structure in national programs
- More Aruban players gaining international experience
“We’re not just showing up anymore. We’re here to compete and win.”
🌍 A Team with Growing Belief
Recent successes, such as a draw against Barbados and Nations League victories, have lifted spirits in the squad.
“There’s real belief now. We’re seeing our work pay off. The atmosphere is confident, but focused—we know we can do more.”
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