Former Feyenoord defender Daryl Janmaat has publicly backed his former club to contend for the Eredivisie title in the upcoming season. Speaking to FCUpdate, Janmaat cited the team’s “fresh” tactical impression during a recent friendly against Club Brugge, the potential of new striker Nacho Ferri, and the stabilizing influence of coach Giovanni van Bronckhorst as primary reasons for his optimism.
The Impact of Tactical Stability and New Talent
Janmaat’s assessment centers on the squad’s ability to maintain high-quality output across both domestic league play and the Champions League. According to the former international, the arrival of forward Nacho Ferri and the continued development of Shaqueel van Persie provide the necessary depth to challenge for the championship.
“Feyenoord has real quality,” Janmaat told FCUpdate. “I expect more of a battle for the championship than last year.” He specifically highlighted the importance of keeping key playmakers like Calvin Stengs fit to ensure the team can transition effectively from preseason form to competitive success.
Pro Tip: Squad depth is the most common factor in Champions League success. Janmaat emphasizes that while the starting XI shows promise, the club must still address the backline—specifically the left-back position—to handle the physical toll of a dual-competition season.
Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s Leadership Style
A significant shift in the club’s atmosphere is attributed to the coaching transition. Janmaat noted that Giovanni van Bronckhorst provides a calmer, more composed presence compared to his predecessor. This change in leadership is expected to benefit players like Sem Steijn, who has previously shown an ability to produce goals and assists when in a stable environment.
“Giovanni is a very calm person by nature,” Janmaat explained. “He comes across well, keeps the peace in the group, and stands well among the boys.” According to the former defender, this lack of ego allows the players to focus entirely on their performance, which could be the deciding factor in a tight title race.
Addressing Roster Gaps for European Competition
While the offensive outlook is positive, Janmaat cautioned that the current roster is not yet “finished” for the rigors of the Champions League. He specifically pointed to the left-back position as a priority, noting the injury to Jordan Bos as a complicating factor for the club’s recruitment strategy.
Did you know? In the modern Eredivisie, the ability to rotate fullbacks without a drop in defensive structure is often the difference between a top-three finish and a title-winning campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who does Daryl Janmaat tip to win the Eredivisie?
Janmaat has explicitly tipped Feyenoord to win the title, citing his confidence in the squad’s quality and the positive atmosphere currently surrounding the club.
What are the biggest concerns for Feyenoord’s squad?
Janmaat identified the backline as the primary area requiring further investment, noting that depth is essential for managing the combined load of the Eredivisie and the Champions League.
How is the team atmosphere described?
According to conversations Janmaat had with Sem Steijn, the current atmosphere within the club is overwhelmingly positive, characterized by a “fresh wind” under the new technical staff.
Do you agree with Janmaat’s assessment? Will Feyenoord’s new signings be enough to secure the trophy? Join the conversation in the comments below or subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest Eredivisie updates.