PEC Zwolle Squad 2024/25
PEC Zwolle, a club with a rich history in Dutch football, has meticulously assembled a squad for the 2024/25 season that blends youthful exuberance with seasoned experience. Known for their commitment to nurturing talent and strategic recruitment, the club has made significant strides in the transfer market to ensure competitiveness in the Eredivisie. This season’s roster reflects a balance of homegrown players and international acquisitions, each bringing unique qualities to the team. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of the squad, categorized by position, highlighting the players who will don the blue and white stripes in the upcoming campaign.
Goalkeepers
- Jasper Schendelaar
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: Vitesse (loan), Jong PSV
- Transfer Fee: Free (promoted from youth academy)
- Description: Jasper Schendelaar, a product of PEC Zwolle’s youth system, has steadily risen through the ranks to become the club’s first-choice goalkeeper. Standing at 1.90 meters, Schendelaar combines excellent reflexes with commanding aerial presence. His loan spell at Vitesse provided him with valuable Eredivisie experience, and he has since matured into a reliable shot-stopper. Known for his distribution and ability to organize the defense, Schendelaar is a cornerstone of Zwolle’s backline.
- Xander Marnix
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: FC Volendam, FC Eindhoven
- Transfer Fee: €500,000
- Description: Xander Marnix joined PEC Zwolle in the summer of 2024 as a backup goalkeeper. With a strong track record at FC Volendam, where he made over 50 appearances, Marnix brings depth and competition to the goalkeeping department. His agility and quick decision-making make him a dependable option between the sticks. Marnix’s experience in the Eerste Divisie and Eredivisie ensures he is ready to step up when called upon.
- Thijs Jansen
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: None (youth product)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
- Description: Thijs Jansen, a promising 19-year-old goalkeeper, has been promoted to the senior squad after impressive performances in the youth setup. While still developing, Jansen’s potential is evident in his shot-stopping ability and composure under pressure. He is expected to gain experience through cup matches and training sessions with the first team.
Defenders
- Bram van Polen (Captain)
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: None (club legend)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
- Description: A true icon of PEC Zwolle, Bram van Polen continues to lead the team with his unwavering commitment and leadership. Now in the twilight of his career, van Polen’s versatility allows him to play as a right-back or center-back. His tenacity, work rate, and ability to read the game make him an invaluable asset. Despite his age, van Polen remains a fan favorite and a mentor to younger players.
- Sam Kersten
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: FC Utrecht, FC Volendam
- Transfer Fee: €1.2 million
- Description: Sam Kersten, a commanding center-back, joined PEC Zwolle in 2023 and has since established himself as a key figure in defense. His physicality, aerial dominance, and ability to play out from the back align perfectly with the team’s tactical approach. Kersten’s experience at FC Utrecht and FC Volendam has honed his defensive skills, making him a reliable presence in the backline.
- Thomas Lam
- Nationality: Finnish
- Former Clubs: PEC Zwolle (returning from loan), Nottingham Forest
- Transfer Fee: Loan return
- Description: Thomas Lam returns to PEC Zwolle after a loan spell, bringing his wealth of experience and versatility. Capable of playing as a center-back or defensive midfielder, Lam’s tactical intelligence and passing range add depth to the squad. His previous stint with the club was marked by consistent performances, and his return is a boost to the defensive unit.
- Dean Huiberts
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: None (youth product)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
- Description: Dean Huiberts, a young left-back, has been promoted to the senior squad after impressing in the youth ranks. Known for his pace, crossing ability, and defensive awareness, Huiberts is seen as a long-term prospect. While still adapting to the demands of senior football, his potential is undeniable.
- Rico Strieder
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: FC Utrecht, Bayern Munich II
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer
- Description: Rico Strieder, a versatile defender, joined PEC Zwolle on a free transfer in 2024. Primarily a right-back, Strieder’s experience in the Eredivisie with FC Utrecht makes him a valuable addition. His defensive solidity and ability to contribute to attacks provide balance to the team’s play.
Midfielders
- Younes Namli
- Nationality: Danish
- Former Clubs: FC Krasnodar, Sparta Rotterdam
- Transfer Fee: €2 million
- Description: Younes Namli, an attacking midfielder, is one of PEC Zwolle’s marquee signings for the 2024/25 season. Known for his creativity, dribbling, and eye for goal, Namli adds a new dimension to the team’s attack. His experience in Russia and the Netherlands makes him a seasoned campaigner capable of unlocking defenses.
- Zian Flemming
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: Millwall, Fortuna Sittard
- Transfer Fee: €3.5 million
- Description: Zian Flemming, a dynamic box-to-box midfielder, returned to the Netherlands after a successful spell in England. His physicality, technical ability, and goal-scoring prowess make him a complete midfielder. Flemming’s leadership qualities and work ethic have already made him a fan favorite.
- Eliano Reijnders
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: AZ Alkmaar, FC Twente
- Transfer Fee: €1.8 million
- Description: Eliano Reijnders, a deep-lying playmaker, joined PEC Zwolle to add creativity and control to the midfield. His passing range and ability to dictate the tempo of the game are crucial to the team’s build-up play. Reijnders’ experience in the Eredivisie ensures he is a reliable presence in the engine room.
- Davy van den Berg
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: FC Groningen, Willem II
- Transfer Fee: €1 million
- Description: Davy van den Berg, a versatile midfielder, provides energy and versatility to the squad. Capable of playing in multiple roles, van den Berg’s work rate and tactical awareness make him a valuable asset. His experience in the Eredivisie adds depth to the midfield.
Forwards
- Lennart Thy
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: Werder Bremen, St. Pauli
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer
- Description: Lennart Thy, a seasoned striker, joined PEC Zwolle to bolster the attacking options. Known for his physicality and goal-scoring instincts, Thy’s experience in Germany and the Netherlands makes him a reliable option upfront. His ability to hold up play and bring others into the game is a key asset.
- Ferdy Druijf
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: Rapid Wien, AZ Alkmaar
- Transfer Fee: €2.5 million
- Description: Ferdy Druijf, a technically gifted forward, joined PEC Zwolle to add firepower to the attack. His ability to link play and score from various positions makes him a versatile option. Druijf’s experience in Austria and the Netherlands ensures he is ready to make an impact.
- Raphael Obermair
- Nationality: Austrian
- Former Clubs: FC Utrecht, Wolfsberger AC
- Transfer Fee: €1.5 million
- Description: Raphael Obermair, a winger with pace and trickery, joined PEC Zwolle to provide width and creativity. His ability to take on defenders and deliver accurate crosses makes him a valuable addition. Obermair’s experience in the Eredivisie ensures he is ready to contribute immediately.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 PEC Zwolle squad is a blend of youth and experience, with a focus on tactical flexibility and attacking flair. The club’s strategic recruitment and commitment to developing young talent have resulted in a well-rounded team capable of competing at the highest level. With a mix of seasoned professionals and emerging stars, PEC Zwolle is poised to make a significant impact in the Eredivisie and beyond. Fans can look forward to an exciting season filled with passion, determination, and memorable performances.
