Go Ahead Eagles Squad 2024/25
The Go Ahead Eagles, a historic Dutch football club based in Deventer, have meticulously assembled their squad for the 2024/25 season. Known for their resilience and competitive spirit, the Eagles aim to build on their recent successes and continue their upward trajectory in the Eredivisie. This season’s roster reflects a blend of experienced veterans, promising young talents, and strategic acquisitions designed to strengthen the team’s core. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of the squad, categorized by position, highlighting each player’s background, achievements, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
- Jay Gorter
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: Ajax, FC Utrecht (youth)
- Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2023)
Jay Gorter, a towering presence between the posts, joined Go Ahead Eagles in 2023 after a stint at Ajax. Known for his exceptional reflexes and commanding aerial ability, Gorter has quickly established himself as the first-choice goalkeeper. His distribution skills and ability to read the game make him a vital asset in building attacks from the back. At just 24 years old, Gorter has already gained valuable experience in the Eredivisie and is seen as a future star for the Dutch national team.
- Hobie Verhulst
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: FC Volendam, FC Utrecht (youth)
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Hobie Verhulst, a reliable and experienced goalkeeper, was brought in as a backup option for the 2024/25 season. Having spent several years at FC Volendam, Verhulst brings a wealth of knowledge and composure to the squad. His shot-stopping ability and leadership qualities make him a dependable option when called upon. At 32, Verhulst also serves as a mentor to younger players in the team.
- Norbert Alblas
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: Ajax (youth), FC Dordrecht
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Norbert Alblas, a product of Ajax’s famed youth academy, joined Go Ahead Eagles to provide depth in the goalkeeping department. Although primarily a third-choice keeper, Alblas is known for his dedication and professionalism. His technical skills and understanding of the game make him a valuable training partner for the team’s other goalkeepers.
Defenders
- Bas Kuipers
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: FC Utrecht, Roda JC
- Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2022)
Bas Kuipers, the team’s captain and left-back, is a cornerstone of Go Ahead Eagles’ defense. Known for his tireless work rate and precise crossing ability, Kuipers is equally adept at defending and contributing to the attack. His leadership on and off the pitch has been instrumental in the team’s recent successes. At 29, Kuipers remains one of the most consistent performers in the Eredivisie.
- Gerrit Nauber
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: MSV Duisburg, FC Ingolstadt
- Transfer Fee: €750,000 (2023)
Gerrit Nauber, a commanding center-back, joined the Eagles in 2023 and has since become a defensive stalwart. Standing at 1.93 meters, Nauber excels in aerial duels and is known for his physicality and tactical awareness. His ability to organize the backline and make crucial interceptions has made him a fan favorite.
- Joris Kramer
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: FC Groningen, SC Cambuur
- Transfer Fee: €300,000 (2024)
Joris Kramer, a versatile defender capable of playing both center-back and right-back, was signed to bolster the team’s defensive options. His experience in the Eredivisie and his ability to read the game make him a valuable addition to the squad. Kramer’s composure under pressure and his knack for timely tackles have already proven crucial in several matches.
- Matteo Waem
- Nationality: Belgian
- Former Clubs: Club Brugge, Lommel SK
- Transfer Fee: €400,000 (2024)
Matteo Waem, a dynamic right-back, joined Go Ahead Eagles in the summer of 2024. Known for his pace and attacking prowess, Waem is a modern full-back who thrives in overlapping runs and delivering dangerous crosses. His defensive discipline and ability to track back quickly make him a well-rounded player.
- Ruben Roosken
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: FC Twente (youth), Heracles Almelo
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Ruben Roosken, a young and promising center-back, was signed to provide depth and competition in defense. At just 21 years old, Roosken has already shown glimpses of his potential with his strong tackling and ability to play out from the back. His development will be closely monitored this season.
Midfielders
- Philippe Rommens
- Nationality: Belgian
- Former Clubs: KRC Genk, KV Mechelen
- Transfer Fee: €1.2 million (2023)
Philippe Rommens, a creative and technically gifted midfielder, is the engine of Go Ahead Eagles’ midfield. Known for his vision and passing range, Rommens dictates the tempo of the game and is a constant threat from set-pieces. His ability to score from distance and create chances for his teammates makes him one of the team’s most important players.
- Luca de la Torre
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Fulham, Heracles Almelo
- Transfer Fee: €2 million (2024)
Luca de la Torre, a U.S. international, joined the Eagles in 2024 after impressing in the Eredivisie with Heracles Almelo. A versatile midfielder capable of playing in multiple roles, de la Torre is known for his dribbling skills, work rate, and ability to break up opposition play. His arrival has added a new dimension to the team’s midfield.
- Sylla Sow
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: FC Utrecht, Sheffield Wednesday
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Sylla Sow, a dynamic winger who can also operate in central midfield, brings pace and creativity to the team. His direct style of play and ability to take on defenders make him a constant threat in the final third. Sow’s versatility and experience in both the Eredivisie and English Championship have been valuable assets.
- Rayan El Azrak
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: Feyenoord (youth), FC Dordrecht
- Transfer Fee: €200,000 (2024)
Rayan El Azrak, a young and energetic midfielder, was signed to add depth and competition in the middle of the park. Known for his tenacity and ability to drive forward with the ball, El Azrak has the potential to develop into a key player for the Eagles. His work ethic and determination have already earned him praise from the coaching staff.
- Jordy Bruijn
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: Ajax (youth), NEC Nijmegen
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Jordy Bruijn, a technically skilled midfielder, joined Go Ahead Eagles on a free transfer in 2024. His ability to control the ball in tight spaces and his eye for a pass make him a valuable option in the squad. Bruijn’s experience in the Eredivisie adds depth and quality to the team’s midfield.
Forwards
- Bobby Adekanye
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: Liverpool (youth), Lazio, Cádiz
- Transfer Fee: €1 million (2023)
Bobby Adekanye, a pacy and skillful winger, has been one of Go Ahead Eagles’ standout performers since joining in 2023. Known for his dribbling ability and flair, Adekanye is a constant threat on the flanks. His ability to cut inside and score goals has made him a key player in the team’s attack.
- Willum Þór Willumsson
- Nationality: Icelandic
- Former Clubs: IFK Norrköping, Silkeborg IF
- Transfer Fee: €800,000 (2024)
Willum Þór Willumsson, an Icelandic forward, was signed to add firepower to the Eagles’ attack. A versatile player capable of playing as a striker or on the wing, Willumsson is known for his physicality and clinical finishing. His experience in Scandinavian and European leagues brings a new dynamic to the team.
- Oliver Edvardsen
- Nationality: Norwegian
- Former Clubs: Sarpsborg 08, HamKam
- Transfer Fee: €600,000 (2024)
Oliver Edvardsen, a tall and powerful striker, joined Go Ahead Eagles in 2024 to bolster the team’s attacking options. Known for his aerial ability and hold-up play, Edvardsen is a traditional number nine who thrives in the box. His physical presence and goal-scoring instincts make him a valuable asset.
- Ragnar Oratmangoen
- Nationality: Indonesian
- Former Clubs: FC Groningen, SC Cambuur
- Transfer Fee: €300,000 (2024)
Ragnar Oratmangoen, a versatile forward, was signed to provide depth and competition in the attacking department. Known for his pace and ability to play across the front line, Oratmangoen is a dynamic option off the bench. His technical skills and work rate have already made an impact.
- Finn Stokkers
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: RKC Waalwijk, VVV-Venlo
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Finn Stokkers, a hardworking and intelligent forward, joined Go Ahead Eagles on a free transfer in 2024. Known for his movement and ability to link play, Stokkers is a team player who contributes both goals and assists. His experience in the Eredivisie adds depth to the squad.
Conclusion
The Go Ahead Eagles’ squad for the 2024/25 season is a well-balanced mix of youth and experience, with strategic signings aimed at addressing key areas of the team. From the commanding presence of Jay Gorter in goal to the creative flair of Philippe Rommens in midfield and the attacking prowess of Bobby Adekanye, the Eagles have assembled a roster capable of competing at the highest level. With a strong defensive foundation and a dynamic attack, the team is poised to make a significant impact in the Eredivisie this season. Fans can look forward to an exciting campaign as the Eagles continue to soar to new heights.