Feyenoord Squad 2024/25: A Comprehensive Overview

Feyenoord, one of the most storied clubs in Dutch football, enters the 2024/25 season with a squad brimming with talent, ambition, and a mix of experienced veterans and exciting young prospects. Under the guidance of their manager, the team has been meticulously assembled to compete on all fronts, aiming to reclaim domestic glory and make a significant impact in European competitions. This season’s roster reflects a blend of homegrown academy products, shrewd signings, and strategic investments, ensuring depth and quality across all positions. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of the Feyenoord squad for the 2024/25 campaign, examining each player’s background, attributes, and contributions to the team.

Goalkeepers

Justin Bijlow

Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Feyenoord Academy
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy Graduate)
Justin Bijlow, the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper, has been a cornerstone of Feyenoord’s defense since breaking into the first team. Known for his exceptional reflexes, commanding presence, and ability to organize the backline, Bijlow has earned his place as one of the Eredivisie’s top shot-stoppers. His distribution skills, particularly with long passes, often initiate quick counterattacks. Despite battling injuries in previous seasons, Bijlow’s resilience and leadership qualities make him indispensable. He has also been a regular call-up for the Dutch national team, further cementing his reputation as a reliable custodian.

Timon Wellenreuther

Nationality: German
Former Clubs: FC Schalke 04, Willem II
Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2021)
Timon Wellenreuther serves as a dependable backup to Bijlow, offering experience and composure between the posts. The German goalkeeper joined Feyenoord in 2021 after a successful spell at Willem II, where he showcased his shot-stopping abilities and quick decision-making. Wellenreuther’s calm demeanor under pressure and his ability to perform in high-stakes matches make him a valuable asset. While primarily a second-choice keeper, his professionalism and readiness to step up when called upon have earned him the respect of teammates and fans alike.

Thijs Jansen

Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Feyenoord Academy
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy Graduate)
Thijs Jansen, a promising young goalkeeper, is the third-choice option for Feyenoord. Having progressed through the club’s renowned academy, Jansen is highly regarded for his agility and shot-stopping potential. While he is yet to make a senior appearance, his performances in youth competitions and training sessions have been impressive. Jansen represents the future of Feyenoord’s goalkeeping department, and the club is carefully nurturing his development to ensure he reaches his full potential.

Defenders

Lutsharel Geertruida

Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Feyenoord Academy
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy Graduate)
Lutsharel Geertruida has emerged as one of Feyenoord’s most versatile defenders, capable of playing as a right-back, center-back, or even in midfield. His athleticism, tactical intelligence, and ability to read the game make him a key figure in the squad. Geertruida’s composure on the ball and his willingness to join the attack add an extra dimension to Feyenoord’s play. Having come through the academy, he embodies the club’s philosophy of developing homegrown talent, and his consistent performances have attracted interest from top European clubs.

David Hancko

Nationality: Slovakian
Former Clubs: Fiorentina, Sparta Prague
Transfer Fee: €6 million (2022)
David Hancko, a commanding center-back, has been a revelation since joining Feyenoord in 2022. The Slovakian defender is known for his physicality, aerial prowess, and ability to play out from the back. Hancko’s leadership qualities and experience in European competitions make him a vital component of the defense. His partnership with Geertruida has been instrumental in Feyenoord’s defensive solidity, and his knack for scoring crucial goals from set-pieces adds an extra threat to the team’s attacking Arsenal.

Marcos López

Nationality: Peruvian
Former Clubs: San Jose Earthquakes
Transfer Fee: €2.5 million (2023)
Marcos López, the dynamic left-back, joined Feyenoord in 2023 and has quickly established himself as a fan favorite. Known for his blistering pace, overlapping runs, and defensive tenacity, López provides width and energy down the left flank. His ability to deliver pinpoint crosses and contribute to the attack has made him an integral part of Feyenoord’s system. López’s adaptability and work ethic have also seen him excel in a more advanced wing-back role when required.

Gernot Trauner

Nationality: Austrian
Former Clubs: LASK Linz
Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2021)
Gernot Trauner, the experienced Austrian center-back, brings stability and composure to Feyenoord’s defense. His positional awareness, ability to intercept passes, and calmness under pressure have been crucial in high-stakes matches. Trauner’s leadership on and off the pitch has made him a respected figure in the squad. While not the most flashy defender, his consistency and reliability make him an invaluable asset, especially in European competitions.

Quilindschy Hartman

Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Feyenoord Academy
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy Graduate)
Quilindschy Hartman, a rising star in Feyenoord’s defensive ranks, has impressed with his maturity and technical ability. The young left-back, who graduated from the academy, is known for his attacking instincts and defensive discipline. Hartman’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively has earned him regular minutes, and his potential has not gone unnoticed by scouts across Europe. With his rapid development, Hartman is poised to become a mainstay in Feyenoord’s backline for years to come.

Midfielders

Mats Wieffer

Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: FC Twente
Transfer Fee: €1 million (2022)
Mats Wieffer, a versatile midfielder, has been a revelation since joining Feyenoord from FC Twente in 2022. Known for his work rate, tactical intelligence, and ability to break up play, Wieffer has become a key figure in the engine room. His passing range and composure on the ball allow him to dictate the tempo of the game, while his defensive contributions provide a solid foundation for the team. Wieffer’s consistent performances have also earned him recognition at the international level, with call-ups to the Dutch national team.

Quinten Timber

Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: FC Utrecht
Transfer Fee: €8 million (2023)
Quinten Timber, the younger brother of Ajax’s Jurriën Timber, joined Feyenoord in 2023 and has quickly made an impact. The dynamic midfielder is known for his energy, technical ability, and eye for goal. Timber’s ability to drive forward with the ball and link up play between midfield and attack has added a new dimension to Feyenoord’s play. His versatility allows him to operate in various midfield roles, making him a valuable asset for the manager.

Ramiz Zerrouki

Nationality: Algerian
Former Clubs: FC Twente
Transfer Fee: €4 million (2023)
Ramiz Zerrouki, the Algerian international, brings a blend of physicality and technical skill to Feyenoord’s midfield. Known for his ability to win duels and retain possession under pressure, Zerrouki has become a reliable presence in the center of the park. His experience in the Eredivisie, gained during his time at FC Twente, has helped him adapt seamlessly to Feyenoord’s style of play. Zerrouki’s contributions have been instrumental in the team’s success, particularly in high-intensity matches.

Javairô Dilrosun

Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Hertha Berlin, Manchester City Academy
Transfer Fee: Free Transfer (2023)
Javairô Dilrosun, a technically gifted winger, joined Feyenoord on a free transfer in 2023 after leaving Hertha Berlin. Known for his dribbling skills, creativity, and ability to deliver dangerous crosses, Dilrosun has added flair to Feyenoord’s attack. His versatility allows him to play on either flank or as an attacking midfielder, providing the manager with tactical flexibility. Dilrosun’s experience in top European leagues has been invaluable, and his performances have endeared him to the Feyenoord faithful.

Forwards

Santiago Giménez

Nationality: Mexican
Former Clubs: Cruz Azul
Transfer Fee: €6 million (2022)
Santiago Giménez, the prolific Mexican striker, has been a revelation since joining Feyenoord in 2022. Known for his clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and ability to hold up play, Giménez has become the focal point of Feyenoord’s attack. His goal-scoring exploits have been crucial in both domestic and European competitions, earning him a reputation as one of the Eredivisie’s most lethal forwards. Giménez’s performances have also attracted interest from top clubs across Europe, but Feyenoord remains determined to retain his services.

Igor Paixão

Nationality: Brazilian
Former Clubs: Coritiba
Transfer Fee: €3 million (2022)
Igor Paixão, the Brazilian winger, has been a standout performer for Feyenoord since his arrival in 2022. Known for his dribbling skills, pace, and ability to create chances, Paixão has added a new dimension to the team’s attack. His flair and creativity have made him a fan favorite, and his ability to score crucial goals has been vital in tight matches. Paixão’s performances have also earned him recognition in Brazil, with calls for him to be included in the national team setup.

Ayase Ueda

Nationality: Japanese
Former Clubs: Cercle Brugge, Kashima Antlers
Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2023)
Ayase Ueda, the Japanese forward, joined Feyenoord in 2023 and has quickly adapted to the demands of European football. Known for his work rate, technical ability, and eye for goal, Ueda has provided valuable depth to the attacking options. His versatility allows him to play as a central striker or in a supporting role, making him a useful asset for the manager. Ueda’s performances have been promising, and he is expected to play a more significant role in the coming seasons.

Yankuba Minteh

Nationality: Gambian
Former Clubs: Odense Boldklub
Transfer Fee: €5 million (2023)
Yankuba Minteh, the Gambian winger, joined Feyenoord in 2023 and has quickly made an impact with his electrifying pace and direct style of play. Known for his ability to take on defenders and deliver dangerous crosses, Minteh has added a new dimension to Feyenoord’s attack. His performances have been particularly impressive in European competitions, where his speed and skill have caused problems for opposing defenses. Minteh’s potential is immense, and he is seen as one of the most exciting young talents in the squad.

Conclusion

The Feyenoord squad for the 2024/25 season is a well-balanced mix of youth and experience, with each player bringing unique qualities to the table. From the commanding presence of Justin Bijlow in goal to the attacking flair of Santiago Giménez and Igor Paixão, the team is equipped to challenge for honors on multiple fronts. The blend of homegrown talent and strategic signings reflects the club’s commitment to sustainable success. As Feyenoord embarks on another exciting campaign, the squad’s depth, quality, and unity will be key to achieving their ambitions. With the right blend of determination and skill, the future looks bright for this storied club.