PEC Zwolle Midfielders 2024/25
PEC Zwolle, a club with a rich history in Dutch football, has always been known for its ability to nurture talent and build competitive squads. As the 2024/25 season unfolds, the midfield department stands out as a crucial component of the team’s strategy. This season, the club boasts a blend of experienced campaigners and promising young talents, each bringing their unique skills to the pitch. In this post, we’ll take an in-depth look at every midfielder currently on PEC Zwolle’s roster, exploring their backgrounds, playing styles, and contributions to the team.
1. Thomas van den Belt
Thomas van den Belt, a Dutch national, has become a cornerstone of PEC Zwolle’s midfield since his arrival. Born in Zwolle itself, van den Belt is a product of the club’s youth academy, making his rise to the first team a source of pride for local fans. His journey began with PEC Zwolle’s U-19 squad, where his technical prowess and vision quickly caught the attention of coaches. Van den Belt’s ability to dictate the tempo of the game and his precise passing make him a vital cog in the team’s engine room. Standing at 1.78 meters, he combines agility with a strong work ethic, often dropping deep to retrieve the ball and initiating attacks. His loyalty to the club is evident, as he has never sought a transfer, embodying the spirit of PEC Zwolle. With over 100 appearances for the club, van den Belt’s leadership on and off the pitch continues to inspire his teammates.
2. Younes Namli
Younes Namli, a Danish-born midfielder of Moroccan descent, brings a touch of international flair to PEC Zwolle’s midfield. Signed from Russian club Krasnodar in 2023 for a reported fee of €1.5 million, Namli has quickly established himself as a fan favorite. Known for his dribbling skills and creativity, Namli thrives in advanced midfield roles, where he can exploit spaces and create scoring opportunities. His journey began at FC Nordsjælland in Denmark, followed by stints at FC Midtjylland and Colorado Rapids in MLS. Namli’s versatility allows him to operate both centrally and on the wings, making him a valuable asset for the team. At 29 years old, he brings a wealth of experience and a calm demeanor under pressure, often delivering in crucial moments. His ability to link play between midfield and attack has been instrumental in PEC Zwolle’s offensive strategies this season.
3. Davy van den Berg
Davy van den Berg, another Dutch talent, joined PEC Zwolle in 2022 from AZ Alkmaar for a modest fee of €500,000. Since then, he has grown into a reliable presence in the midfield. Van den Berg’s playing style is characterized by his tenacity and ability to break up opposition play. Standing at 1.82 meters, he uses his physicality to dominate aerial duels and shield the ball effectively. His journey began at FC Utrecht’s youth academy, where he honed his skills before moving to AZ Alkmaar. Despite facing stiff competition for a starting spot, van den Berg has consistently proven his worth with disciplined performances. His tactical awareness and ability to read the game make him an essential component of PEC Zwolle’s defensive setup. Off the pitch, he is known for his humility and dedication, often staying late after training to work on his game.
4. Anis Hadj-Moussa
Anis Hadj-Moussa, a French-Algerian midfielder, joined PEC Zwolle in the summer of 2023 on a free transfer after his contract with FC Dordrecht expired. His arrival was seen as a shrewd piece of business, given his potential and versatility. Hadj-Moussa is a dynamic box-to-box midfielder who excels in both defensive and offensive duties. His energy and stamina allow him to cover vast areas of the pitch, making him a nightmare for opposing midfielders. Born in Marseille, Hadj-Moussa began his career at Olympique Marseille’s youth academy before moving to FC Dordrecht, where he gained valuable first-team experience. At 24 years old, he is still developing but has already shown glimpses of his immense potential. His ability to drive forward with the ball and his eye for goal add an extra dimension to PEC Zwolle’s midfield.
5. Dean Huiberts
Dean Huiberts, a Dutch midfielder, is one of the younger members of PEC Zwolle’s squad. At just 21 years old, Huiberts has already made a significant impact since his promotion from the club’s youth ranks. His technical ability and composure on the ball belie his age, earning him comparisons to some of the Netherlands’ finest midfielders. Huiberts’ journey began at VV Berkum, a local club in Zwolle, before he joined PEC Zwolle’s academy at the age of 12. His rise through the ranks has been meteoric, and he is now considered one of the brightest prospects in Dutch football. Huiberts’ playing style is characterized by his close control, quick turns, and ability to find pockets of space. While still refining his defensive skills, his offensive contributions have been invaluable, making him a key player for the future.
6. Eliano Reijnders
Eliano Reijnders, the younger brother of AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders, is another exciting talent in PEC Zwolle’s midfield. The Dutch midfielder joined the club in 2023 from AZ Alkmaar’s youth setup, signing a long-term contract. Reijnders’ playing style is reminiscent of his brother’s, with a focus on technical excellence and intelligent movement. At 20 years old, he is still adapting to the demands of senior football but has shown immense promise in his limited appearances. Reijnders’ ability to retain possession under pressure and his vision for incisive passes make him a player to watch. His development has been carefully managed by the coaching staff, who believe he has the potential to become a mainstay in the team. Off the pitch, Reijnders is known for his quiet determination and eagerness to learn.
7. Zian Flemming
Zian Flemming, a Dutch attacking midfielder, returned to PEC Zwolle in 2024 after a successful spell at Millwall in the English Championship. The club paid a fee of €2 million to secure his services, a testament to his importance. Flemming’s return was met with widespread excitement, as he had previously spent two seasons at PEC Zwolle before moving to England. Known for his goal-scoring ability and set-piece expertise, Flemming adds a new dimension to the team’s attack. His journey began at Ajax’s famed youth academy, followed by spells at NEC Nijmegen and Fortuna Sittard. Flemming’s physical presence, standing at 1.88 meters, allows him to dominate in aerial duels, while his technical skills make him a threat from distance. His leadership qualities and experience in high-pressure situations have been invaluable for the squad.
8. Ryan Thomas
Ryan Thomas, a New Zealand international, brings a wealth of experience to PEC Zwolle’s midfield. Signed from PSV Eindhoven in 2022, Thomas has become a key figure in the team’s setup. His journey to the Netherlands began in his homeland, where he played for Western Suburbs before moving to Europe. Thomas’ versatility allows him to play in multiple midfield roles, from holding midfielder to advanced playmaker. His ability to read the game and make intelligent runs has been crucial in breaking down opposition defenses. Despite battling injuries in recent years, Thomas has shown resilience and determination to regain his best form. His international experience, including appearances at the FIFA World Cup, adds a layer of maturity to the squad.
9. Lennart Thy
Lennart Thy, a German forward who often drops into midfield, is a unique addition to PEC Zwolle’s roster. Signed from Werder Bremen in 2023, Thy’s versatility allows him to contribute in various roles. His journey began at Schalke 04’s youth academy, followed by spells at St. Pauli and Eintracht Braunschweig. Thy’s physicality and work rate make him a valuable asset in both attack and midfield. At 32 years old, he brings a wealth of experience and a calm head in pressure situations. Thy’s ability to hold up the ball and bring teammates into play has been instrumental in PEC Zwolle’s build-up play. Off the pitch, he is known for his charitable work, including his involvement in initiatives to combat homelessness.
10. Samir Lagsir
Samir Lagsir, a Dutch-Moroccan midfielder, is one of the rising stars in PEC Zwolle’s squad. Promoted from the club’s youth academy in 2023, Lagsir has quickly made a name for himself with his energetic performances. His playing style is characterized by his relentless pressing and ability to win back possession. Lagsir’s journey began at local club CSV’28 before he joined PEC Zwolle’s academy at the age of 14. At 19 years old, he represents the future of the club, with his potential yet to be fully realized. Lagsir’s enthusiasm and determination have endeared him to fans, who see him as a symbol of the club’s commitment to youth development.
Conclusion
PEC Zwolle’s midfield for the 2024/25 season is a blend of experience, youth, and versatility. Each player brings a unique set of skills and attributes, contributing to the team’s overall success. From the leadership of Thomas van den Belt to the creativity of Younes Namli and the promise of Dean Huiberts, the midfield unit is well-equipped to compete at the highest level. As the season progresses, these players will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping PEC Zwolle’s fortunes, both domestically and in European competitions. The future looks bright for the club, with a midfield that embodies talent, determination, and a deep connection to the community.
