As the 2024/25 season approaches, NAC Breda, one of the Netherlands’ most storied football clubs, has meticulously assembled a squad brimming with talent, experience, and potential. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young stars, the team is poised to make a significant impact in the Eredivisie and beyond. This post delves into the comprehensive roster, breaking it down into goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards. Each player is profiled in detail, highlighting their background, career trajectory, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
Roy Kortsmit
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: FC Emmen, FC Dordrecht
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Roy Kortsmit has established himself as NAC Breda’s first-choice goalkeeper since joining the club. Known for his quick reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Kortsmit has been a reliable last line of defense. His ability to organize the backline and make crucial saves in high-pressure situations has earned him the trust of both teammates and fans. With over 150 Eredivisie appearances, his experience is invaluable to the squad.
Nick Olij
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Sparta Rotterdam, FC Volendam
Transfer Fee: €200,000 (2023)
Nick Olij, a talented shot-stopper, joined NAC Breda as a backup option but has proven his worth whenever called upon. His agility and sharp decision-making make him a dependable choice between the sticks. Olij’s journey through the Dutch football pyramid has equipped him with a deep understanding of the game, and his competitive nature pushes Kortsmit to maintain high standards.
Joris Kramer
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: FC Eindhoven, Jong PSV
Transfer Fee: Youth academy product
A product of NAC Breda’s youth system, Joris Kramer is the third-choice goalkeeper. While he has yet to make a senior appearance, his performances in training and reserve matches have been promising. Kramer’s development is closely monitored, and he is seen as a future prospect for the club.
Defenders
Pablo Marí
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Arsenal, Flamengo, Manchester City
Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2024)
Pablo Marí brings a wealth of experience to NAC Breda’s defense. The Spanish center-back, known for his composure and tactical intelligence, joined the club after a successful stint in Brazil with Flamengo. His ability to read the game and distribute the ball from the back has added a new dimension to the team’s play. Marí’s leadership qualities have also made him a key figure in the dressing room.
Bart Meijers
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: FC Groningen, De Graafschap
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Bart Meijers is a versatile defender capable of playing both center-back and right-back. His tenacity and work rate make him a fan favorite, while his aerial prowess is a significant asset during set-pieces. Meijers’ experience in the Eredivisie ensures he remains a consistent performer for NAC Breda.
Jan Van den Bergh
Nationality: Belgian
Former Clubs: Club Brugge, KAS Eupen
Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2024)
Jan Van den Bergh, a left-back with a keen eye for overlapping runs, joined NAC Breda to bolster the defensive flanks. His crossing ability and defensive discipline have made him an integral part of the team’s setup. Van den Bergh’s experience in the Belgian Pro League adds depth and quality to the squad.
Iván Márquez
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: CD Lugo, Real Oviedo
Transfer Fee: €750,000 (2024)
Iván Márquez, a towering center-back, was signed to add physicality and resilience to NAC Breda’s defense. His ability to win duels and clear danger has been crucial in tight matches. Márquez’s adaptability and strong work ethic have quickly endeared him to the coaching staff.
Thibo Baeten
Nationality: Belgian
Former Clubs: KV Mechelen, Waasland-Beveren
Transfer Fee: €300,000 (2023)
Thibo Baeten, a young right-back, has shown immense potential since joining NAC Breda. His pace and defensive awareness make him a reliable option on the flank. Baeten’s development is a testament to the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
Jethro Mashart
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: FC Utrecht (youth), FC Den Bosch
Transfer Fee: Youth academy product
Jethro Mashart, a product of NAC Breda’s youth system, has emerged as a promising center-back. His physicality and ability to play out from the back align perfectly with the team’s style. Mashart’s rise through the ranks is a source of pride for the club.
Midfielders
Oussama Tannane
Nationality: Moroccan
Former Clubs: Saint-Étienne, Vitesse, Heracles Almelo
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Oussama Tannane, a creative midfielder with a flair for the spectacular, joined NAC Breda to add creativity and experience to the midfield. His vision and set-piece expertise have already made a significant impact. Tannane’s journey across Europe has honed his skills, making him a key player for the team.
Dirk Proper
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: NEC Nijmegen
Transfer Fee: €1 million (2024)
Dirk Proper, a dynamic box-to-box midfielder, was signed to inject energy and versatility into the midfield. His ability to break up play and drive forward with the ball has been instrumental in NAC Breda’s transition game. Proper’s work ethic and technical ability make him a fan favorite.
Mounir El Allouchi
Nationality: Moroccan-Dutch
Former Clubs: Excelsior, Alanyaspor
Transfer Fee: €400,000 (2023)
Mounir El Allouchi, a technically gifted midfielder, is known for his dribbling and passing range. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game has been crucial in NAC Breda’s midfield. El Allouchi’s versatility allows him to play in multiple roles, adding depth to the squad.
Erik Falkenburg
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Feyenoord, VVV-Venlo
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Erik Falkenburg, a seasoned midfielder, brings leadership and experience to the team. His ability to control the game and contribute with goals from midfield has been vital. Falkenburg’s professionalism and dedication set a high standard for younger players.
Jort van der Sande
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: FC Eindhoven, Helmond Sport
Transfer Fee: Youth academy product
Jort van der Sande, a hardworking midfielder, has risen through the ranks to become a key player for NAC Breda. His energy and commitment make him a valuable asset in both attack and defense. Van der Sande’s development reflects the club’s focus on youth.
Dylan Ryan
Nationality: Australian
Former Clubs: Willem II, FC Volendam
Transfer Fee: €250,000 (2024)
Dylan Ryan, a versatile midfielder, was signed to add depth and flexibility to the squad. His ability to play in multiple positions and contribute defensively has been crucial. Ryan’s international experience brings a unique perspective to the team.
Forwards
Jordy Croux
Nationality: Belgian
Former Clubs: MVV Maastricht, NEC Nijmegen
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Jordy Croux, a pacey winger, has been a revelation for NAC Breda since joining the club. His dribbling and crossing ability have created numerous scoring opportunities. Croux’s work rate and determination make him a constant threat on the flanks.
Boris van Schuppen
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: FC Den Bosch, FC Volendam
Transfer Fee: €150,000 (2024)
Boris van Schuppen, a versatile forward, was signed to provide depth in attack. His ability to play as a winger or striker adds flexibility to the team’s offensive options. Van Schuppen’s technical skills and finishing ability make him a valuable asset.
Koki Saito
Nationality: Japanese
Former Clubs: Lommel SK, Sint-Truiden
Transfer Fee: €1.2 million (2024)
Koki Saito, a technically gifted winger, joined NAC Breda to add creativity and flair to the attack. His dribbling and ability to create chances have made him a fan favorite. Saito’s international experience brings a unique dynamic to the team.
Iván Calero
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: FC Porto B, FC Emmen
Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2023)
Iván Calero, a versatile forward, has been a consistent performer for NAC Breda. His ability to play across the front line and contribute with goals and assists has been crucial. Calero’s technical ability and work ethic make him a key player.
Odysseus Velanas
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: FC Volendam, FC Eindhoven
Transfer Fee: Youth academy product
Odysseus Velanas, a promising young forward, has shown glimpses of his potential in limited appearances. His pace and finishing ability make him an exciting prospect for the future. Velanas’ development is a testament to the club’s youth system.
Sydney van Hooijdonk
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Bologna, Heerenveen
Transfer Fee: €2 million (2024)
Sydney van Hooijdonk, a prolific striker, was signed to lead NAC Breda’s attack. His physicality and finishing ability have already made him a key player. Van Hooijdonk’s pedigree and goal-scoring record make him a marquee signing for the club.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 NAC Breda squad is a well-balanced mix of experience, youth, and talent. With a strong defensive unit, a creative midfield, and a dynamic attack, the team is well-equipped to compete at the highest level. The club’s strategic signings and commitment to youth development reflect a clear vision for sustained success. As the season unfolds, fans can look forward to an exciting brand of football and a team that embodies the spirit of NAC Breda.
