Hidde ter Avest has returned to the Eredivisie, signing a one-year contract with Willem II featuring an option for an additional season, according to the club’s official website. The 29-year-old right-back makes the move to the Tilburgers on a free transfer after spending the previous two seasons in England with Oxford United. According to Willem II, the club secured the defender’s signature to add experience to their squad following his departure from the English Championship.
Hidde Ter Avest Completes Free Transfer to Willem II
The former FC Twente and FC Utrecht defender finalized his move to Willem II after his contract with Oxford United expired and was not renewed, per club announcements. Ter Avest noted on the Willem II website that he deliberately took his time to evaluate his next career step. According to the player, conversations with Willem II and the clear confidence they placed in him ultimately convinced him to sign. The 29-year-old expressed enthusiasm about returning to the Dutch top flight after two years abroad and stated his readiness to contribute to the team in Tilburg.
Career Path From FC Twente to the Eredivisie via Italy and England
Ter Avest’s professional journey spans multiple leagues across the Netherlands, Italy, and England, beginning in the youth academy of FC Twente. According to club records, he advanced to the Twente senior squad in January 2015 and established himself as a regular starter at right-back for three seasons. Following the club’s relegation, he transferred to Italian side Udinese on a free transfer, where he logged 2.5 seasons. In the winter of 2021, he returned to the Eredivisie with FC Utrecht, making 100 total appearances for FC Twente over his career before subsequently playing 3.5 seasons in Utrecht and moving to Oxford United.
Did you know? Hidde ter Avest made exactly 100 appearances for FC Twente during his time with the Enschede club, anchoring their defense before embarking on spells abroad in Italy and England.
Championship Struggles and the Decision to Return to the Netherlands
Ter Avest’s stint in English football did not go as planned, as Oxford United suffered relegation from the Championship at the end of the season. According to reports from his time in England, the right-back struggled to make a lasting impression, found playing time hard to come by, and was frequently omitted from matchday squads altogether. Rather than remaining abroad, the defender opted for a return to familiar territory. Willem II capitalized on his free-agent status to secure a seasoned defender for their Eredivisie campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which club did Hidde ter Avest join?
Ter Avest signed with Willem II on a free transfer for one season, with an option for an additional year.
Why did Ter Avest leave Oxford United?
Oxford United chose not to renew his expiring contract after a two-season spell in England that ended with the club’s relegation from the Championship.
How many appearances did Ter Avest make for FC Twente?
Ter Avest played a total of 100 matches for FC Twente, where he began his professional career.
What do you think of this transfer?
Will Hidde ter Avest provide the necessary defensive boost for Willem II in the Eredivisie? Join the conversation by leaving a comment below, share this article with fellow football fans, or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest Dutch football updates.
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