The 2024/25 season marks an exciting chapter for NEC Nijmegen as the club continues to build on its rich history and competitive spirit in Dutch football. With a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talents, the squad has been meticulously assembled to challenge for domestic glory and make a mark in European competitions. This season’s roster reflects a strategic balance of defensive solidity, midfield creativity, and attacking firepower. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of the squad, categorized by position, highlighting each player’s background, achievements, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
Jasper Cillessen
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: FC Barcelona, Valencia, Ajax
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Jasper Cillessen, a seasoned Dutch international, brings a wealth of experience to NEC Nijmegen. Known for his exceptional reflexes and composure under pressure, Cillessen has been a reliable presence between the posts since joining the club. His ability to organize the defense and make crucial saves in high-stakes situations has made him a fan favorite. With over 60 caps for the Netherlands, his leadership and shot-stopping prowess are invaluable assets for the team.
Mattijs Branderhorst
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: FC Utrecht, FC Volendam
Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2021)
Mattijs Branderhorst serves as a dependable backup to Cillessen, offering depth and competition in the goalkeeping department. His agility and strong aerial ability make him a capable shot-stopper, particularly in one-on-one situations. Branderhorst’s development has been steady, and his performances in cup matches have demonstrated his readiness to step up when called upon.
Robin Roefs
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: NEC Nijmegen Youth Academy
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy Graduate)
A product of NEC’s esteemed youth academy, Robin Roefs represents the future of the club’s goalkeeping ranks. At just 20 years old, Roefs has shown immense potential with his quick reflexes and excellent distribution. While still gaining experience, his inclusion in the first-team squad highlights the club’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
Defenders
Ivan Márquez
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: CD Lugo, Real Oviedo
Transfer Fee: €1.2 million (2023)
Ivan Márquez, a towering Spanish center-back, has been a rock in NEC’s defense since his arrival. Known for his physicality and aerial dominance, Márquez excels in intercepting crosses and breaking up opposition attacks. His ability to play out from the back with precise passing adds an extra dimension to the team’s build-up play. Márquez’s leadership qualities have also made him a key figure in the dressing room.
Calvin Verdonk
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Feyenoord, FC Twente
Transfer Fee: €800,000 (2022)
Calvin Verdonk’s versatility allows him to operate effectively as both a left-back and center-back. His pace, tackling ability, and tactical intelligence make him a crucial component of NEC’s defensive unit. Verdonk’s experience in the Eredivisie and his knack for contributing to the attack with overlapping runs have solidified his place in the starting lineup.
Bart van Rooij
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: FC Utrecht, SC Cambuur
Transfer Fee: €600,000 (2023)
Bart van Rooij has established himself as a reliable right-back with a strong work ethic and defensive discipline. His ability to read the game and make timely interceptions has been instrumental in neutralizing opposing wingers. Van Rooij’s crossing accuracy and willingness to join the attack provide an additional offensive threat down the flank.
Philippe Sandler
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Manchester City, Anderlecht
Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2024)
Philippe Sandler’s arrival from Anderlecht has bolstered NEC’s defensive options significantly. A technically gifted center-back, Sandler is known for his composure on the ball and ability to initiate attacks from deep. His experience in top European leagues adds a layer of sophistication to the team’s defensive play.
Lasse Schöne
Nationality: Danish
Former Clubs: Ajax, Genoa
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Although primarily a midfielder, Lasse Schöne’s versatility allows him to slot into a defensive role when needed. His vast experience, tactical awareness, and set-piece expertise make him a valuable asset. Schöne’s leadership and professionalism have had a positive impact on the squad’s younger players.
Dirk Proper
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: NEC Nijmegen Youth Academy
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy Graduate)
Dirk Proper, a promising young defender, has risen through the ranks to secure a spot in the first team. His tenacity, positioning, and ability to play out from the back have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s best. Proper’s development is a testament to the club’s investment in youth.
Midfielders
Oussama Tannane
Nationality: Moroccan
Former Clubs: Saint-Étienne, Las Palmas
Transfer Fee: €2 million (2023)
Oussama Tannane’s creativity and flair have made him a standout performer in NEC’s midfield. The Moroccan international is known for his dribbling skills, vision, and ability to score from distance. Tannane’s experience in top European leagues has brought a new level of sophistication to the team’s attacking play.
Dirk Proper
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: NEC Nijmegen Youth Academy
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy Graduate)
Dirk Proper’s versatility extends to the midfield, where he excels as a box-to-box player. His energy, passing range, and ability to break up play have made him a key figure in the team’s engine room. Proper’s commitment to the club and consistent performances have endeared him to the fans.
Lasse Schöne
Nationality: Danish
Former Clubs: Ajax, Genoa
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
In his natural midfield role, Lasse Schöne’s experience and technical ability shine through. His precise passing, tactical intelligence, and set-piece prowess make him a vital cog in NEC’s midfield. Schöne’s leadership and calm demeanor under pressure have been instrumental in guiding the team through challenging matches.
Elayis Tavsan
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: NEC Nijmegen Youth Academy
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy Graduate)
Elayis Tavsan’s pace and dribbling skills make him a constant threat on the wing. The young Dutchman has developed into a key player for NEC, contributing with goals and assists. Tavsan’s ability to take on defenders and deliver dangerous crosses has added a new dimension to the team’s attack.
Mikkel Duelund
Nationality: Danish
Former Clubs: Dynamo Kyiv, FC Midtjylland
Transfer Fee: €1 million (2024)
Mikkel Duelund’s arrival has added creativity and depth to NEC’s midfield. The Danish playmaker is known for his vision, passing accuracy, and ability to score from midfield. Duelund’s experience in European competitions brings a wealth of knowledge to the squad.
Forwards
Bas Dost
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Wolfsburg, Sporting CP
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Bas Dost’s prolific goal-scoring record speaks for itself. The experienced striker has been a revelation for NEC, using his physical presence and clinical finishing to great effect. Dost’s ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the game has made him a focal point of the team’s attack.
Magnus Mattsson
Nationality: Danish
Former Clubs: FC Nordsjælland
Transfer Fee: €1.8 million (2024)
Magnus Mattsson’s pace and technical ability have made him a standout performer in NEC’s forward line. The Danish forward is known for his dribbling skills, quick turns, and ability to score from tight angles. Mattsson’s versatility allows him to play across the front line, providing the team with tactical flexibility.
Landry Dimata
Nationality: Belgian
Former Clubs: Anderlecht, Espanyol
Transfer Fee: €2.5 million (2023)
Landry Dimata’s speed and finishing ability have made him a key player for NEC. The Belgian striker’s movement off the ball and ability to exploit defensive gaps have resulted in numerous goals. Dimata’s work rate and commitment to pressing from the front have also been crucial in the team’s high-intensity style of play.
Ali Akman
Nationality: Turkish
Former Clubs: Beşiktaş, Eintracht Frankfurt
Transfer Fee: €1.2 million (2024)
Ali Akman’s arrival has added a new dimension to NEC’s attack. The Turkish forward is known for his agility, close control, and ability to score from difficult positions. Akman’s creativity and link-up play have made him a valuable asset in the final third.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 NEC Nijmegen squad is a well-rounded unit with a mix of experience, youth, and talent. Each player brings unique qualities to the table, contributing to the team’s collective strength and ambition. With a solid defensive foundation, a creative midfield, and a dynamic attack, NEC is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season. The club’s commitment to developing young talent while integrating experienced players ensures a bright future for this historic Dutch side. Fans can look forward to an exciting campaign filled with thrilling performances and memorable moments.
