Willem II Squad 2024/25
The 2024/25 season marks an exciting chapter for Willem II, a historic Dutch football club based in Tilburg. Known for their passionate fanbase and commitment to nurturing young talent, Willem II has assembled a squad that blends experience, youth, and international flair. This season, the team aims to compete at the highest level, whether in the Eredivisie or other competitions, with a roster that showcases depth in every position. From reliable goalkeepers to dynamic forwards, the squad is poised to deliver thrilling performances. Below, we break down the squad by position, providing detailed insights into each player’s background, achievements, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
- Timon Wellenreuther
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: Schalke 04, Feyenoord, RKC Waalwijk
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Timon Wellenreuther is the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper for Willem II. Known for his sharp reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Wellenreuther has been a cornerstone of the team’s defense since his arrival. The German shot-stopper began his career at Schalke 04, where he gained valuable experience in the Bundesliga. After stints at Feyenoord and RKC Waalwijk, he joined Willem II on a free transfer, quickly establishing himself as a fan favorite. His ability to pull off crucial saves in high-pressure situations has earned him widespread acclaim.
- Connor van den Berg
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: FC Utrecht (youth), Jong FC Utrecht
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed (2023)
Connor van den Berg serves as a reliable backup to Wellenreuther. The young Dutch goalkeeper has shown immense potential, with his agility and quick decision-making standing out. Van den Berg spent his formative years at FC Utrecht’s youth academy before making the move to Willem II. While he is yet to feature prominently in the first team, his performances in training and reserve matches suggest a bright future ahead.
- Jorn Brondeel
- Nationality: Belgian
- Former Clubs: Club Brugge, KV Mechelen
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Jorn Brondeel, a seasoned Belgian goalkeeper, was brought in during the summer of 2024 to provide additional depth to the squad. With experience in the Belgian Pro League, Brondeel brings a wealth of knowledge and composure to the team. His leadership qualities and ability to organize the defense make him a valuable asset, especially in mentoring younger players.
Defenders
- Leeroy Owusu
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: Ajax (youth), FC Volendam
- Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2023)
Leeroy Owusu is a versatile right-back known for his pace and attacking prowess. The Dutch defender began his career at Ajax’s famed youth academy before moving to FC Volendam, where he honed his skills. His €500,000 transfer to Willem II in 2023 was seen as a coup, and he has since become a key figure in the team’s defensive setup. Owusu’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a vital component of the squad.
- Freek Heerkens
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: PSV Eindhoven, FC Twente
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2021)
Freek Heerkens is a seasoned center-back who brings stability and experience to Willem II’s defense. Having started his career at PSV Eindhoven, Heerkens has played at the highest level in Dutch football. His leadership on the pitch and ability to read the game have made him a mainstay in the starting lineup. Heerkens’ no-nonsense approach to defending has earned him the respect of teammates and opponents alike.
- Ulrich Bapoh
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: Borussia Dortmund (youth), FC Groningen
- Transfer Fee: €300,000 (2024)
Ulrich Bapoh, a young German defender, joined Willem II in 2024 for a fee of €300,000. Known for his physicality and aerial dominance, Bapoh has quickly adapted to the demands of Dutch football. His time at Borussia Dortmund’s youth academy and FC Groningen has prepared him well for the challenges of the Eredivisie. Bapoh’s potential is evident, and he is expected to play a significant role in the coming seasons.
- Miquel Nelom
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: Feyenoord, Sparta Rotterdam
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Miquel Nelom, an experienced left-back, provides balance and defensive solidity to Willem II’s backline. The Dutch defender spent the majority of his career at Feyenoord, where he won multiple trophies, including the Eredivisie title. Nelom’s experience and tactical awareness make him a reliable option, especially in high-stakes matches.
- Ringo Meerveld
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: AZ Alkmaar (youth), FC Den Bosch
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed (2022)
Ringo Meerveld is a promising young defender who has shown glimpses of his potential since joining Willem II. The Dutch center-back is known for his composure on the ball and ability to play out from the back. Meerveld’s development has been steady, and he is expected to challenge for a starting spot in the near future.
Midfielders
- Pol Llonch
- Nationality: Spanish
- Former Clubs: Girona, Wisła Kraków
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Pol Llonch is a tenacious defensive midfielder who provides grit and determination to Willem II’s midfield. The Spanish enforcer has a wealth of experience, having played in Spain and Poland before joining the Dutch side. Llonch’s ability to break up play and distribute the ball efficiently makes him a crucial part of the team’s engine room.
- Dries Saddiki
- Nationality: Dutch-Moroccan
- Former Clubs: FC Utrecht, NAC Breda
- Transfer Fee: €200,000 (2023)
Dries Saddiki is a dynamic box-to-box midfielder known for his energy and versatility. The Dutch-Moroccan player has been a consistent performer since his €200,000 move from NAC Breda. Saddiki’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively has made him a fan favorite, and he is often relied upon to dictate the tempo of the game.
- Elton Kabangu
- Nationality: Belgian
- Former Clubs: Standard Liège, KV Oostende
- Transfer Fee: €400,000 (2024)
Elton Kabangu, a Belgian midfielder, joined Willem II in 2024 for a fee of €400,000. Known for his creativity and vision, Kabangu has added a new dimension to the team’s attacking play. His ability to unlock defenses with precise passes and his eye for goal make him a valuable asset in the final third.
- Matthias Verreth
- Nationality: Belgian
- Former Clubs: PSV Eindhoven (youth), MVV Maastricht
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed (2023)
Matthias Verreth is a technically gifted midfielder who excels in tight spaces. The Belgian playmaker has a keen eye for goal and is known for his set-piece prowess. Verreth’s development has been impressive, and he is expected to play a more prominent role in the 2024/25 season.
- Thijs Oosting
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: FC Twente, SC Cambuur
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Thijs Oosting, a versatile midfielder, joined Willem II on a free transfer in 2024. The Dutchman is known for his work rate and ability to play multiple positions in midfield. Oosting’s experience in the Eredivisie makes him a valuable addition to the squad.
Forwards
- Jeredy Hilterman
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: AZ Alkmaar (youth), FC Volendam
- Transfer Fee: €600,000 (2023)
Jeredy Hilterman is Willem II’s talismanic striker, known for his clinical finishing and physical presence. The Dutch forward joined the club for €600,000 in 2023 and has since been a consistent goal scorer. Hilterman’s ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the game adds another dimension to his skill set.
- Kwasi Okyere Wriedt
- Nationality: German-Ghanaian
- Former Clubs: Bayern Munich II, FC St. Pauli
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Kwasi Okyere Wriedt, a German-Ghanaian forward, was signed on a free transfer in 2024. Known for his pace and finishing ability, Wriedt has quickly become a key player for Willem II. His experience in Germany’s lower divisions and his time at Bayern Munich II have prepared him well for the challenges of Dutch football.
- Nick Doodeman
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: FC Volendam, FC Emmen
- Transfer Fee: Undisclosed (2023)
Nick Doodeman is a versatile winger who can play on either flank. The Dutchman is known for his dribbling skills and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses. Doodeman’s contributions in the final third have been crucial for Willem II, and he is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming season.
- Jeremy Bokila
- Nationality: Congolese
- Former Clubs: FC Twente, Al-Arabi
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Jeremy Bokila, a Congolese forward, brings power and experience to Willem II’s attack. The striker has played in multiple leagues across Europe and Asia, making him a well-rounded player. Bokila’s physicality and goal-scoring instincts make him a valuable option off the bench.
- Thibaut Van Acker
- Nationality: Belgian
- Former Clubs: Club Brugge (youth), KV Kortrijk
- Transfer Fee: €250,000 (2024)
Thibaut Van Acker, a young Belgian forward, joined Willem II for €250,000 in 2024. Known for his technical ability and composure in front of goal, Van Acker is seen as one for the future. His performances in training and reserve matches have been promising, and he is expected to feature more prominently in the coming seasons.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Willem II squad is a blend of experienced campaigners and exciting young talents, all united by a common goal: to achieve success on the pitch. With a strong defensive foundation, a dynamic midfield, and a potent attack, the team is well-equipped to compete at the highest level. The addition of key players during the transfer window has further strengthened the squad, ensuring depth and versatility in every position. As the season unfolds, fans can look forward to thrilling performances and memorable moments from this talented group of players. Willem II’s commitment to nurturing young talent while maintaining a competitive edge promises an exciting future for the club.