Zijler, born in Rotterdam, began his football journey at the Ajax academy before making his professional debut with Twente in 2006.
Zijler's career also saw him competing abroad, with stints at clubs like Rijeka in Croatia, Orduspor in Turkey, and Universitatea Cluj in Romania.
[18] Zijler denied the claims, stating he had only visited a convenience store in the same building and viewed live football screens and betting lists, while also highlighting unpaid wages.
[19] In July 2015, the Romanian Football Federation's appeals committee ruled that Universitatea Cluj must meet its contractual obligations to him.
Due to lateness to practice, he made only three appearances and fell out of favour with head coach Hans van de Haar.