Tag Archives: Hakim Ziyech

Is your team looking for some creativity? Here’s the boys they need this January.

January 5, 2019 Will Burns Leave a comment

With the January transfer window in full force, Steve Davies is on hand to guide you through some of the notable Dutch-based players and Dutchmen abroad who may soon be on the move.

The potential transfer receiving the most column inches ahead of the January transfer window involves Ajax’s Frenkie de Jong and while the club are well stocked in terms of replacements should either the 21-year-old Dutch international or Ajax’s Moroccan midfield maestro, Hakim Ziyech opt to make their move, with the club going strong on all fronts this term, Erik ten Hag will hope the major pieces of his Ajax puzzle remain in place until the summer.

However, one Ajax midfielder who does appear set for a temporary change of scenery is highly regarded 20-year-old, Danny de Wit with the Dutch U21 international in line for a loan move to another Eredivisie outfit to gain some much-needed top-flight experience ahead of playing a more prominent role in ten Hag’s plans next term.

In Eindhoven, having fallen out of favour with coach, Mark van Bommel, and with just seven appearances in all competitions to his name this term, the forgotten Bart Ramselaar could do with a switch, be it temporary or permanent.

Meanwhile, any hopes the reigning Eredivisie champions may have harboured of recapturing the influential Marco van Ginkel on loan once more have been dashed by the news the Chelsea midfielder will remain sidelined with a knee problem until next season.

However, there has been some encouraging news on the recruitment front for the Eredivisie pacesetters who, along with Groningen, are widely reported to have veteran Dutch international Arjen Robben in their sights. The 34-year-old’s current deal at Bayern Munich is set to expire in the summer and will not be renewed.

Over at Feyenoord, despite having a deal that runs until mid-2020, with just six appearances in all competitions this season, Peruvian international Renato Tapia appears to be the odd man out in Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s midfield equation and may look for pastures new in January.

Elsewhere, with fifteen goals and five assists in all competition already this term, the form of ADO Den Haag’s Abdenasser El Khayati is turning heads and despite his current deal in The Hague running until mid-2020, the 29-year-old may well find himself in demand in January.

Image result for arber zeneli — Cash-strapped Heerenveen will cash in on Zeneli this month

Another midfielder to have caught the eye over the course of the first half of the season in the Dutch top flight has been Heerenveen’s Kosovar international, Arbër Zeneli. With four goals and ten assists in just eighteen appearances in all competitions and a contract that is set to expire in the summer, expect the 23-year-old’s signature to be much sought after during this transfer window.

Finally, another player with a rapidly expiring contract that is worth keeping tabs on during the coming transfer window is Heracles’ 24-year-old Swedish international Kristoffer Peterson. With ten goals and two assists to his name in his nineteen appearances in all competitions this term, the Swede could well be on the move in January.

Click on Steven’s name above to follow him on Twitter

TotalDutchFootball.com

TEAM OF THE WEEK

Eredivisie Team of the Week: Ziyech tops Week 7

October 2, 2018 Will Burns Leave a comment

The Eredivisie season is back and so is our Player of the Year tournament. Every week Will Burns and Steve Davies select the best 11 from that week’s action and each player is awarded one point. One member of the team will win the ‘Player of the Week’ award and be awarded two points. Check the current standings here.

More next week. Remember to keep an eye on the standings of the Player of the Season tournament by clicking here.

Click the name above to follow Will on Twitter.

TotalDutchFootball.com

TEAM OF THE WEEK

Eredivisie Team of the Week: Peterson rises as PSV & Ajax dominate

September 17, 2018 Will Burns Leave a comment

Two-goal Kristoffer Peterson claims our two-point Player of the Week prize as his side Heracles smashed Heerenveen 5-3 as the Swede also grabbed an assist in the win.

PSV and Ajax dominate the team taking eight of the eleven slots in the side. PSV smashed seven past ADO and Hirving Lozano and Luuk de Jong were obviously amongst the goals. Debutant Erick Gutierrez came off the bench to assist and score his own goal in the 7-0 rout.

Ajax, readying themselves for a Champions League group match against AEK midweek, defeated FC Groningen by three goals to no reply and veteran striker Klass-Jan Huntelaar and Dusan Tadic notched the goals.

More next week. Remember to keep an eye on the standings of the Player of the Season tournament by clicking here.

Click the name above to follow Will on Twitter.

TotalDutchFootball.com

TEAM OF THE WEEK

Eredivisie Team of the Week: Ziyech is our silky star man

August 26, 2018 Will Burns Leave a comment

Welcome to week three of the Total Dutch Football.com Eredivisie Player of the Year tournament. Every week Will Burns and Steve Davies select the best 11 from that week’s action and each player is awarded one point. One member of the team will win the ‘Player of the Week’ award and be awarded two points. Check the current standings here.

Hakim Ziyech was our standout player of the week. The Moroccan international was influential in the 5-0 drubbing over FC Emmen, torturing the defence with his plays and shots.

Luuk de Jong snatched his first two goals of the season in a last gasp 2-1 win over PEC Zwolle. Three Willem II players made the team. Fernando Lewis, Donis Avdijaj and Fran Sol were the pick of the team that thumped Heracles by five goals to nil.

More next week. Remember to keep an eye on the standings of the Player of the Season tournament by clicking here.

Click the name above to follow Will on Twitter.

TotalDutchFootball.com

TEAM OF THE WEEK

Eredivisie Team Of The Week – Round 4

August 29, 2016 Will Burns Leave a comment

Here is round four of our Eredivisie Team of the Week which leads into our 2016/17 Eredivisie ‘Player of the Season’ competition. All players have performed so well this weekend that Will Burns has selected them in the team of the week. Each player in the eleven receives one point and whichever player is declared ‘Player of the Week’, he receives an extra point.

GOALKEEPER

MICKEY VAN DER HART – PEC ZWOLLE: If Zwolle did not have the former Ajax youth keeper in goal on Saturday evening, the 1-0 loss to Heerenveen could have been a lot, lot worse.

DEFENDERS

RICK KARSDORP – FEYENOORD: Excellent performance by the 21-year-old in the Rotterdam derby against Excelsior.

HECTOR MORENO – PSV: He makes our team of the week for the second week in a row. The Mexican was again a leader at the back and a threat up top.

ROBIN GOSENS – HERACLES: An first goal for the club, strong in defence with a 100% passing succession rate vs. ADO in a 1-1 draw.

RIDGECIANO HAPS – AZ ALKMAAR: Second week in a row that Haps has been selected in our TOTW. A great performance with a clean sheet in the 2-0 win over NEC.

MIDFIELDERS

HAKIM ZIYECH – FC TWENTE: Linked with a move away from Enschede and he notched two goals in possibly his last game in the Twente shirt.

DAVY KLAASSEN – AJAX: Davy lands our Player of the Week award leading Ajax to a much needed win over Go Ahead with two goals.

NEMANJA GUDELJ – AJAX: Scorer of a wonderful free-kick in the 3-0 away victory against Go Ahead.

ATTACKERS

STEVEN BERGHUIS – FEYENOORD: A commanding performance with an assist in the 4-1 win over Excelsior on his first start for Feyenoord.

DIRK KUYT – FEYENOORD: Notched a brace in the four goal turnaround against Excelsior.

FRED FRIDAY – AZ ALKMAAR: The Nigerian striker would have bagged his first goal this weekend but was ruled offside. Despite that, he played an important part in the 2-0 victory over NEC.

Click here to see the ‘Player of the Season’ standings.

Click the name above to follow Will on Twitter.

TotalDutchFootball.com WorldFootballWeekly.com

FEATURE

Hakim Ziyech would thrive at Swansea City or Middlesbrough

June 13, 2016 Will Burns 1 Comment

Following the demotion of FC Twente, the future of Hakim Ziyech has become an interesting one to follow amidst Premier League interest. Swansea City and Middlesbrough have both been linked in recent days, which should excited fans of both clubs, as Ziyech has the potential to become a Champions League calibre number ten. In my opinion, he is one of the most exciting players to have come through the Eredivisie in recent years and given his club’s demotion and financial strife, he will be available at a very good price. If one of the clubs above manage to get the deal done for Ziyech, it would be a huge coup says Jake Jackman.

The Moroccan international was the standout player in the Eredivisie this season, not only for his goals and assists, but also for the manner in which he managed to get them. He was playing for a side that had to sell a lot of key players last summer, and a lot of pressure was put on him to carry the side. He was 22 at the beginning of the season and that is a heavy weight of expectation to carry on his shoulders, especially at a club with the esteemed history of FC Twente. Although the club won’t be playing in the Dutch top flight next season, that isn’t for footballing reasons, as Ziyech dragged them to a safe mid-table finish almost single-handedly.

Ziyech scored 17 times and gained 10 assists from the FC Twente midfield, in what was a hugely impressive individual season as a part of a struggling side. He was given the captaincy and led by example, showing that there is more to Ziyech than technical ability, but he is also a leader and revels in such a role. He has had opportunities to leave FC Twente in the last 12 months, but opted to stay put, and that decision has proven to be a great one from Ziyech. He has developed a lot over the last season and will be in a much better position to adapt to a new league when his inevitable move happens in the coming weeks.

In terms of his style, Ziyech is a risk taker in the final third, as he can play some sumptuous passes, which sometimes leads to a low completion rate. He is exciting to watch when he is dribbling with the ball as he is quick, nimble and uses skills effectively. His vision is that of a mature player, as he can see things other less talented attacking midfielders do not. He is good with both feet, and has an eye for goal. The most encouraging thing about his style is his intelligence in the final third as he knows when to shoot and when to pass to a team-mate. His set pieces are also devastating at times, and would be an asset to any side.

If he does come to England, comparisons will be drawn with Memphis Depay, who has struggled to adapt in the Premier League after a great season in Holland. Although there are similarities in that they were both involved in 27 goals, they are different players, with Ziyech preferring to play more centrally and is less direct than the Manchester United man. Depay wasn’t deployed correctly and has failed to make an impact as a result. Ziyech will need patience if he comes to England, as he will need to adapt to the more physical style of play that the English game is famed for.

He has adapted to every new challenge in his career to date. The midfielder adjusted quickly after his move to FC Twente, upped his game when his club put the attacking responsibility on his shoulders. He has also made his mark on the international scene quickly, already having two goals to his name for Morocco. It was a controversial decision to play for the African country after being part of a Dutch squad in the past and he could turn out to be a player the KNVB wish they would have made a bigger effort to keep.

The coming weeks will be interesting and Ziyech is a player who will no doubt continue to progress. He has overcome so many challenges already and his impressive ability to lead and perform to a higher level than he had before last season would have caught the eye of many European clubs. His mentality should mean he will get to the top of the game in the coming years, while his potential can’t be questioned. Whichever club gets him, will be getting a very talented dynamic number ten, capable of producing many goals and assists. He remains young and for the price that he will be available for, Ziyech offers little risk. Every club across Europe should be enquiring about him. The Premier League looks a likely destination, and after he adjusts to the physicality of the league, I expect Ziyech to thrive in England.

Click on Jacob’s name above to follow him on Twitter.

TotalDutchFootball.com WorldFootballWeekly.com

FEATURE

Could these five Eredivisie players be on the move this summer?

May 4, 2016 Will Burns Leave a comment

As one of Europe’s second tier leagues, the Eredivisie will always be at risk of losing its best players, as has happened in recent years. Last season it was Memphis Depay, Gini Wijnaldum, Luc Castaignos, Jordy Clasie and Oussama Tannane who were the big names to leave Holland. This year’s Eredivisie has had an intriguing title race with both PSV and Ajax level on points going into the last two matches. Meanwhile, there have been young players breaking through lower down in the league that will attract big interest this summer. The following are the five players that I feel will attract the most interest and are ready to try their luck in another league tells Jake Jackman.

Hakim Ziyech

The FC Twente attacking midfielder is almost certainly going to be leaving the league this summer, as he has outgrown the Eredivisie and his club are in desperate need of cash. Ziyech is a number ten, who is capable of scoring and creating goals as shown by this season’s tally of 17 goals and 10 assists. He has already tied Memphis Depay’s goal and assists haul from last season, and with two matches to play, he is set to beat it. Ziyech is a dead ball specialist, while his vision is also incredible as he often plays key passes that open up opposition defences. He has also showed his leadership ability as he has captained FC Twente this season after opting to remain at the club last summer.

I’d expect Ziyech to be available for a reasonable fee all factors considered, which could make him the bargain of the summer. He has been linked to Barcelona, Leicester City and Fenerbahce in recent months and it is impossible to predict where he will end up. The 23-year-old will be known to a lot of scouts across Europe and with the potential of making a huge profit, there will be lots of clubs asking about the midfielder.

Vincent Janssen

This year was Janssen’s first in the Eredivisie, but he is en route to being the league’s top scorer and he has also made his Oranje debut in recent months. He made an impact against England, getting a goal and an assist as the Dutch recorded a famous victory at Wembley. This match may have brought him to the world’s attention, but the AZ striker was already well known to regular watchers of the Dutch top flight. Janssen is a complete forward who is very capable of leading the line on his own. His strengths lie around the penalty box as he is a strong finisher, while he is good at anticipating potential chances. Janssen is a capable dribbler, while he also brings midfielders into the game in the final third.

He has an incredible 25 goals in his first Eredivisie season, which surpasses his tally from last season with Almere City. His rise to the top has been staggering and at the age of 21, he is likely to improve a lot more, which is exciting for Oranje fans, especially after the disappointment of missing the European Championships this summer. Janssen would suit Premier League football, and has been linked to both Liverpool and Manchester United. If he does move to a new league in the summer, fans will have to be patient and give him time to adapt as he is still very young. Janssen has adjusted quickly to every challenge he has been set in his career and I think he would be a huge hit wherever he goes.

Jetro Willems

Jetro Willems would have probably departed the league last summer if it wasn’t for his injury problems. He returned in the second half of the season and has performed well for the most part, but he has yet to find his form from last season. He has one goal and three assists to his name from just 13 league games, which shows that he is still a very effective player going forwards. Meanwhile he showed his defensive qualities in both legs against Atletico Madrid, playing a key part in two clean sheets. Willems is a modern day full back, who loves rampaging forwards. He is a good crosser of the ball and his ability to make the decision when on the ball in the final third shows intelligence beyond his years.

He has been linked with several clubs including Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal in recent months. It is got to the point when he should consider moving to another league to test himself and to continue progressing. He would risk stagnation if he remains in the Eredivisie as he is comfortable and established as the best left back in the division. He could cost up to £10m this summer, but he would be a great signing for any of the clubs mentioned as he has the potential to become one of the best full backs in world football. Also, he brings experience of the Champions League and has a winning mentality, both of which will be invaluable when he finally leaves the Eredivisie.

Riechedly Bazoer

The Ajax academy is still bringing through great talents in each generation and Riechedly Bazoer could be the best for a long time. He has already established himself as a starter for both club and country, while he has interested the likes of Napoli in recent months. The central midfielder is a great passer of the ball, while he is capable of carrying the ball, which is often does as he drives Ajax forwards. His reading of the game is superb as he rarely makes mistakes. Moreover, he is able to score goals with his tally standing at five for the season, with his long shots being another strength.

He is only 19-years-old and his potential is enormous. Bazoer is likely to go for a big fee when he does eventually leave Ajax. He has been linked with a move to Arsenal recently, but he may feel another year in the Eredivisie would be beneficial for his development. A move too soon to the wrong club can leave your growth at a standstill as Memphis Depay has learned the hard way. If he does leave this summer, he will be a great pick up for one of Europe’s premier clubs.

Sebastian Haller

The striker has had a great season in the Eredivisie and at the age of 21, he will develop a lot more in the future. Haller is all the attributes to succeed in a bigger league. He is great in the air, a strong finisher and capable of beating defenders on the dribble. The Frenchman is also contributes defensively, especially when it comes to defending set pieces. He almost joined Norwich City in January for £6.5m and although his value may be more in the summer, he will still be a cheaper option for clubs. He is an exciting prospect and it might be worth taking a risk on him now at a fee around £8m, than waiting and seeing his value rise.

Haller has scored 17 goals and has 4 assists, an impressive return which has helped his club get in contention for a Europa League spot for next season. He remains inconsistent and often scores his goals in streaks, but that is to be expected given his age. Tottenham have been linked with him in recent weeks, but they may be looking for a more proven talent to be a back up to Harry Kane, especially with the Champions League next season. He may opt for one more season in the Eredivisie, there will be interest in him this summer though.

Click on Jacob’s name above to follow him on Twitter.

TotalDutchFootball.com WorldFootballWeekly.com

FEATURE

Hakim Ziyech now deserving of his big break

December 8, 2015 Will Burns Leave a comment

In a summer transfer window where the mind boggled at the amount spent – a record £870m in the Premier League – Hakim Ziyech surprisingly remained in the Eredivisie with FC Twente. His stellar performances from last term have only carried through to this term and the decision to pass up on the 22-year-old is proving to be a foolish one writes Alex Blinston.

When Jesus Corona departed Twente for pastures new this summer – The Mexican wide man joined FC Porto for £7 million – Hakim Ziyech may have expected to see bids come in for his services, and rightly so.

His performances for The Tukkers last season were sensational, particularly in a side that largely underwhelmed with financial issues at the heart of their struggles. In the 2014/15 campaign the Moroccan born playmaker recorded 11 goals and 16 assists – Ziyech was the only player in the Eredivisie to register both 11 goals and assists. No player played more key passes last term than Ziyech (83) and only Jetro Willems (75) and Yassin Ayoub (63) played more accurate crosses (60), eye-catching figures by any measure.

Twente are sat in 16th place with only nine points to their name, however, this isn’t due to a lack of effort from their captain. His seven goals and four assists this season is a sterling return and Ziyech is leading the Eredivisie in terms of key passes (43), attempted dribbles (68) and only Edouard Duplan has completed more accurate crosses than Ziyech.

The 22-year-old fits the bill of a traditional no.10. His technique and vision is first-rate and he combines this with a great ability to carry the ball at a defence with an incredible presence. Predominantly left-footed, Ziyech is equally apt with both feet and he is a menace from set-pieces – nobody completed more assists from corners last term (5).

So why did nobody make a serious bid? While there are niggling issues with his strength: although he is 5’11” he still has a very slender frame, as well as his occasional carelessness with the ball, highlighted by his pass completion this season (73.3%), neither should detract from his undoubted talent.

The Netherlands-Morocco tug-of-war took an interesting step in October as Ziyech opted to represent his country of birth, after pulling out of a Netherlands side due to injury back in June. With Wesley Sneijder’s talents undoubtedly waning, Danny Blind’s side are yearning for the architect to lead their side forward post-Sneijder; Hakim Ziyech would have been the perfect fit. After representing the Oranje at U21 level, it will be a bitter pill to swallow. With the 22-year-old yet to represent Morocco in an international fixture, nothing is concrete but all the signs are leading to North Africa with Ziyech saying, “As it looks now, I go to Morocco. I just want to play.”

A player with seemingly unbounded potential, Ziyech needs to continue his progression and inevitably a move will materialise. Great credit needs to be given to the player who didn’t ‘throw his toys out of the pram’ and attempt to force his way out of Twente. While hyperbole can often surround young players, it certainly isn’t the case for Hakim Ziyech for whom the sky is the limit.

All stats via Opta Sports

TEAM OF THE WEEK

Eredivisie Team Of The Week – Round 7

September 29, 2015 Will Burns Leave a comment

Welcome to week seven of our Eredivisie Team of the Week which leads into our Eredivisie ‘Player of the Season’ competition. All players have performed so well this weekend that Martijn Hilhorst and Will Burns have decided they should be in our team of the week. Each player in the eleven receives one point and whichever player is declared ‘Player of the Week’, he receives an extra point.