Central defender Mees Hilgers has joined sc Heerenveen from FC Twente on a free transfer, according to statements made by the player at the Abe Lenstra stadium. The 25-year-old enters this new chapter after spending fifteen years at FC Twente, a tenure that concluded with a prolonged absence from first-team action following a contract dispute.
FC Twente Departure and Contract Dispute
According to Hilgers, his final appearance for FC Twente took place on May 25, 2025, during the play-offs for European football. Following that match, contract negotiations broke down, leading the club to leave him out of the matchday selection. His contract was subsequently extended automatically, a development that caught the defender off guard. “I think that my agent at the time could have canceled my contract,” Hilgers stated. “That’s the only thing I could have done differently. If I knew that rule existed, I would have called my agent and told him not to forget that. Now it was automatically renewed because they wanted to make something out of it, of course.”
Tensions escalated at the start of the current season when Hilgers failed to appear for training, a move that prompted surprise from head manager John van den Brom, as reported by the club. Hilgers later returned to the training ground earlier this month. Addressing his absence, Hilgers stated that the matter was resolved between himself and the club. “On that moment they understood why I didn’t come,” Hilgers said. “I also talked about that with the company doctor. He also understood one hundred percent that I didn’t have to come.”
Did you know? Mees Hilgers spent 15 years within the FC Twente youth and senior structures, moving to Enschede to live on his own at age 16 before his departure to sc Heerenveen.
Fresh Start at sc Heerenveen
Recovered from a severe knee injury, Hilgers is now training fully with the sc Heerenveen squad under head coach Robin Veldman. Technical manager Johan Hansma played a key role in bringing the defender to Friesland. Hilgers noted that he received offers from other clubs in the Netherlands, but ultimately selected sc Heerenveen due to the welcoming atmosphere, the style of play, and the size of the club.
“This is how God it has wanted,” Hilgers remarked regarding his recovery and career path. “Personally and physically I have grown. I have learned from certain situations. The ambitions that I have and the urge to become successful have only become bigger. The quality I have, everyone knows that.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Mees Hilgers leave FC Twente?
According to Hilgers, negotiations for a new contract broke down, resulting in his removal from the matchday selection before his contract was automatically extended.
Who is Mees Hilgers playing for now?
Hilgers plays as a central defender for sc Heerenveen after transferring from FC Twente.
Why did Hilgers miss training sessions at Twente?
Hilgers stated that his absence was discussed with and understood by the club’s company doctor.
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