Frans Thijssen (born 23 January 1952) is a Dutch former professional footballer who played as a midfielder.

In 1979, Thijssen moved to England to sign for Ipswich Town joining former FC Twente teammate Arnold Mühren.

In 1981 he was the first Dutchman to be voted English Footballer of the Year as he helped Ipswich Town win the UEFA Cup, scoring one goal in each of the two legs of the final.

He played a big part in their run to the semi-finals of the FA Cup, and they also finished second in the league that season.

In 1984, he returned to his native country, to play for Fortuna Sittard (1984–1987), FC Groningen (1987–1988) and Vitesse Arnhem (1988–1991).