NEC Nijmegen Forwards 2024/25
NEC Nijmegen, a club with a rich history in Dutch football, continues to build a competitive squad for the 2024/25 season. Known for their attacking flair and commitment to nurturing talent, the club’s forward line is a blend of experienced campaigners and promising young stars. This season, the team’s attacking options are poised to deliver excitement and goals, with each player bringing unique qualities to the pitch. Below, we take an in-depth look at the forwards who will be leading NEC Nijmegen’s charge in the upcoming campaign.
1. Bas Dost
Bas Dost, a seasoned Dutch striker, remains a pivotal figure in NEC Nijmegen’s attack. Born on May 31, 1989, in Deventer, Netherlands, Dost has carved out a reputation as a prolific goal scorer throughout his career. Standing at 6’5”, his aerial prowess and clinical finishing make him a constant threat in the box. Dost joined NEC Nijmegen in 2023 after a successful stint with Club Brugge, where he netted over 50 goals in three seasons. His transfer fee was undisclosed, but his arrival was seen as a major coup for the club.
Dost’s journey includes spells at FC Emmen, SC Heerenveen, VfL Wolfsburg, and Sporting CP, where he became a fan favorite. His experience in top European leagues brings invaluable leadership to the squad. In the 2023/24 season, Dost scored 12 goals in 28 appearances, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure. His hold-up play and ability to bring teammates into the game make him a complete forward. As he enters the twilight of his career, Dost’s focus remains on helping NEC Nijmegen achieve their ambitions.
2. Magnus Mattsson
Magnus Mattsson, a Danish winger with a flair for creativity, has been a revelation since joining NEC Nijmegen in 2022. Born on April 14, 1999, in Copenhagen, Denmark, Mattsson is known for his dribbling skills, vision, and ability to score from distance. He arrived from FC Nordsjælland for a fee of €1.5 million, a move that has proven to be a bargain given his contributions.
Mattsson’s versatility allows him to operate on either flank or as an attacking midfielder. His former clubs include Lyngby BK, where he began his professional career, and FC Nordsjælland, where he honed his skills in the Danish Superliga. In the 2023/24 season, Mattsson recorded 8 goals and 7 assists, cementing his status as one of the team’s key playmakers. His ability to unlock defenses with precise passes and his knack for scoring spectacular goals make him a fan favorite. At just 25 years old, Mattsson’s potential is immense, and he is expected to play a crucial role in the upcoming season.
3. Koki Ogawa
Koki Ogawa, a Japanese forward with a keen eye for goal, joined NEC Nijmegen in 2023 on loan from Júbilo Iwata. Born on August 8, 1997, in Kanagawa, Japan, Ogawa has quickly adapted to European football, impressing with his work rate and finishing ability. Standing at 6’1”, he combines physicality with technical skill, making him a well-rounded attacker.
Ogawa’s journey began at Júbilo Iwata, where he scored 45 goals in 120 appearances, earning him a move to Europe. His loan deal with NEC Nijmegen includes an option to buy, and the club is reportedly keen to make the move permanent. In his debut season, Ogawa netted 10 goals in 25 matches, showcasing his ability to perform in a competitive league. His movement off the ball and composure in front of goal have drawn comparisons to some of Japan’s finest exports. As he continues to develop, Ogawa is expected to play a significant role in NEC Nijmegen’s attacking plans.
4. Elayis Tavsan
Elayis Tavsan, a Dutch winger of Turkish descent, has been a consistent performer for NEC Nijmegen since his arrival in 2020. Born on May 30, 2001, in Rotterdam, Netherlands, Tavsan is known for his blistering pace and ability to take on defenders. He joined the club from Feyenoord’s youth academy, where he developed his technical skills and tactical understanding.
Tavsan’s former clubs include Excelsior, where he spent time on loan to gain first-team experience. In the 2023/24 season, he contributed 6 goals and 9 assists, highlighting his importance to the team’s attacking dynamics. His ability to stretch defenses and deliver accurate crosses makes him a valuable asset. At 23 years old, Tavsan is entering his prime and is expected to take his game to new heights in the upcoming season. His dedication and work ethic have earned him the admiration of both fans and teammates.
5. Landry Dimata
Landry Dimata, a Belgian forward with a knack for finding the back of the net, joined NEC Nijmegen in 2023. Born on September 1, 1997, in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dimata moved to Belgium at a young age and began his football journey with KAS Eupen. His career has taken him to clubs such as VfL Wolfsburg, RSC Anderlecht, and Espanyol, where he gained valuable experience in top leagues.
Dimata’s transfer to NEC Nijmegen was part of the club’s strategy to bolster their attacking options. In his first season, he scored 9 goals in 24 appearances, demonstrating his ability to adapt to new surroundings. His physical presence and intelligent movement make him a constant threat in the final third. Dimata’s experience in European competitions adds depth to the squad, and his leadership qualities are highly regarded. As he looks ahead to the 2024/25 season, Dimata aims to build on his impressive start and help the team achieve their goals.
6. Dirk Proper
Dirk Proper, a versatile Dutch midfielder who often operates as a forward, has been a key player for NEC Nijmegen since breaking into the first team in 2020. Born on February 24, 2002, in Nijmegen, Netherlands, Proper is a product of the club’s youth academy. His technical ability, vision, and work rate have made him a fan favorite.
Proper’s ability to play multiple positions, including as a false nine or attacking midfielder, adds flexibility to the team’s tactics. In the 2023/24 season, he contributed 5 goals and 6 assists, showcasing his all-around contributions. His understanding of the game and ability to read play make him a vital cog in the team’s attacking machinery. At just 22 years old, Proper’s potential is limitless, and he is expected to play a pivotal role in the upcoming season. His loyalty to the club and commitment to improving his game are qualities that set him apart.
7. Oussama Tannane
Oussama Tannane, a Moroccan winger with a flair for the spectacular, joined NEC Nijmegen in 2023. Born on March 23, 1994, in Tétouan, Morocco, Tannane is known for his dribbling skills, creativity, and ability to score from set-pieces. His career has taken him to clubs such as PSV Eindhoven, Saint-Étienne, and Vitesse, where he consistently delivered standout performances.
Tannane’s arrival at NEC Nijmegen was met with great excitement, as the club secured his services on a free transfer. In his debut season, he scored 7 goals and provided 8 assists, proving to be a valuable addition to the squad. His ability to create chances out of nothing and his experience in high-pressure situations make him a key player. Tannane’s leadership on and off the pitch has also been instrumental in guiding the team’s younger players. As he enters the 2024/25 season, Tannane aims to continue his impressive form and help the team achieve success.
8. Anthony Musaba
Anthony Musaba, a Dutch forward with explosive pace and technical skill, has been a standout performer for NEC Nijmegen since joining in 2022. Born on December 28, 2000, in Heerlen, Netherlands, Musaba began his career at FC Heerenveen before moving to AS Monaco, where he gained valuable experience in a competitive environment.
Musaba’s transfer to NEC Nijmegen was part of the club’s strategy to invest in young talent. In the 2023/24 season, he scored 8 goals and provided 5 assists, showcasing his ability to influence games. His speed and agility make him a nightmare for defenders, while his composure in front of goal has earned him praise. At 23 years old, Musaba is still developing, and his potential is evident in every performance. As he looks ahead to the upcoming season, Musaba is determined to take his game to the next level and establish himself as one of the league’s top forwards.
Conclusion
NEC Nijmegen’s forward line for the 2024/25 season is a blend of experience, youth, and versatility. With players like Bas Dost providing leadership, Magnus Mattsson and Elayis Tavsan offering creativity, and Koki Ogawa and Landry Dimata delivering goals, the team is well-equipped to compete at the highest level. The addition of Oussama Tannane and the continued development of Anthony Musaba and Dirk Proper further strengthen the squad’s attacking options. As the new season approaches, fans can look forward to an exciting brand of football, with these forwards leading the charge for success.
