AZ Alkmaar Midfielders 2024/25
AZ Alkmaar, one of the Netherlands’ most storied football clubs, has consistently been a breeding ground for talented players, particularly in the midfield. The 2024/25 season is no exception, as the club boasts a dynamic and versatile group of midfielders who bring a mix of youth, experience, and international flair. This post delves into the current midfield roster, providing an in-depth look at each player’s background, skills, and contributions to the team.
1. Tijjani Reijnders
Tijjani Reijnders, a Dutch national, has become a cornerstone of AZ Alkmaar’s midfield. Born in Zwolle, Reijnders joined AZ’s youth academy in 2017 and has since risen through the ranks to establish himself as a first-team regular. Known for his exceptional vision and passing accuracy, Reijnders is the creative engine of the team. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game and deliver incisive through balls makes him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Reijnders’ journey from the academy to the senior squad is a testament to his dedication and technical prowess. Although he has yet to make a senior international appearance for the Netherlands, his performances at the club level have not gone unnoticed. With a market value steadily rising, Reijnders is a player to watch in the coming seasons.
2. Dani de Wit
Dani de Wit, another Dutch talent, brings a blend of intelligence and physicality to AZ’s midfield. Born in Hoorn, de Wit began his career at Ajax’s famed youth academy before making the move to AZ in 2019. His transfer fee, reported to be around €2 million, has proven to be a bargain given his consistent performances. De Wit is a box-to-box midfielder who excels in both defensive duties and attacking contributions. His knack for arriving in the box at the right time has seen him score crucial goals for the team. Additionally, his leadership qualities have earned him the captain’s armband on several occasions. De Wit’s versatility allows him to play in multiple midfield roles, making him an invaluable asset for the club.
3. Sven Mijnans
Sven Mijnans, a Dutch midfielder with Surinamese heritage, joined AZ Alkmaar in 2022 from Sparta Rotterdam for a fee of approximately €1.5 million. Mijnans is known for his technical skills and ability to retain possession under pressure. His close control and dribbling make him a difficult player to dispossess, often drawing fouls in dangerous areas. Mijnans’ passing range and ability to switch play quickly have added a new dimension to AZ’s midfield. Despite being relatively young, he has shown maturity beyond his years, earning the trust of the coaching staff. Mijnans’ potential is undeniable, and he is expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s success this season.
4. Yukinari Sugawara
Yukinari Sugawara, a Japanese international, is a unique addition to AZ’s midfield. Primarily a right-back, Sugawara’s versatility allows him to slot into a midfield role when needed. Born in Toyokawa, Japan, Sugawara joined AZ in 2019 from Nagoya Grampus. His adaptability and work rate have made him a fan favorite. Sugawara’s ability to overlap and deliver precise crosses adds an attacking threat from deep positions. Defensively, his awareness and tackling ability ensure that he is not a liability when deployed in midfield. Sugawara’s international experience with Japan has further honed his skills, making him a reliable option for the team.
5. Myron van Brederode
Myron van Brederode, a young Dutch midfielder, is one of the most exciting prospects in AZ’s squad. Born in Amsterdam, van Brederode joined AZ’s youth academy in 2018 and has since made a seamless transition to the senior team. Known for his agility and quick feet, van Brederode is a nightmare for defenders in one-on-one situations. His ability to glide past opponents and create scoring opportunities has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats. Despite his tender age, van Brederode has shown remarkable composure on the ball and a willingness to track back and help defensively. His potential is sky-high, and he is expected to play a significant role in AZ’s future.
6. Ernest Poku
Ernest Poku, a Ghanaian-Dutch midfielder, is another promising talent in AZ’s ranks. Born in Amsterdam, Poku joined AZ in 2021 from the youth academy of Almere City. His explosive pace and direct style of play make him a constant threat on the counter-attack. Poku’s ability to drive forward with the ball and take on defenders has earned him a reputation as one of the most exciting young players in the Eredivisie. While still raw in certain aspects of his game, Poku’s potential is evident, and he is expected to develop into a key player for AZ in the coming years. His dual nationality also opens the door for international representation with either Ghana or the Netherlands.
7. Djordje Mihailovic
Djordje Mihailovic, an American midfielder, joined AZ Alkmaar in 2023 from CF Montréal for a fee of around €6 million. Born in Jacksonville, Florida, Mihailovic has quickly become a fan favorite due to his work ethic and technical ability. His versatility allows him to play in various midfield roles, including as an attacking midfielder or a deep-lying playmaker. Mihailovic’s set-piece delivery and eye for goal have added a new dimension to AZ’s attack. His experience in Major League Soccer and with the United States national team has provided him with a solid foundation, and he has adapted well to the demands of European football. Mihailovic’s leadership qualities and determination make him a valuable asset for the team.
8. Mees de Wit
Mees de Wit, a Dutch midfielder, is a product of AZ’s renowned youth academy. Born in Heerhugowaard, de Wit has been with the club since a young age and has steadily progressed through the ranks. Known for his composure on the ball and ability to read the game, de Wit is a reliable presence in midfield. His passing accuracy and ability to break up opposition play have earned him a regular spot in the starting lineup. While not the most flashy player, de Wit’s consistency and tactical intelligence make him an integral part of the team. His loyalty to the club and dedication to improving his game are qualities that endear him to the fans.
9. Zakaria Aboukhlal
Zakaria Aboukhlal, a Moroccan international, is a versatile midfielder who can also operate as a winger. Born in Rotterdam, Aboukhlal began his career at Feyenoord before joining AZ in 2022. His pace, dribbling skills, and ability to score from distance make him a constant threat in the final third. Aboukhlal’s performances for Morocco in international competitions have further raised his profile. His ability to perform on the big stage has translated well to club football, where he has become a key player for AZ. Aboukhlal’s flair and creativity add an exciting dimension to the team’s attacking play.
Conclusion
AZ Alkmaar’s midfield for the 2024/25 season is a blend of youth and experience, with players from diverse backgrounds contributing to the team’s success. From the creative brilliance of Tijjani Reijnders to the explosive pace of Ernest Poku, each midfielder brings a unique set of skills to the table. The club’s commitment to developing young talent while integrating experienced players has created a balanced and dynamic midfield unit. As the season progresses, these players will undoubtedly play a crucial role in AZ’s quest for domestic and European glory. With such a talented group, the future looks bright for AZ Alkmaar.
