Rotterdam, Netherlands – Feyenoord’s search for a fresh technical director has taken a compelling turn, with club legend Willem van Hanegem publicly advocating for AZ Alkmaar’s Max Huiberts to fill the role. The call comes as Feyenoord continues to navigate a period of transition, seeking a long-term solution to lead their football operations.
Huiberts, currently the director of football affairs at AZ, is set to depart the Alkmaar-based club this summer after a decade of service. Van Hanegem, a pivotal figure in Feyenoord’s history, expressed his strong belief in Huiberts’ capabilities, stating, “If I were a big club, I would capture him.” The endorsement adds significant weight to Huiberts’ candidacy, though his immediate availability remains a question mark, as he has indicated a desire to take a break from football.
“Take a year off and then approach function with us,” Van Hanegem urged, as reported by FR12.nl. “Just come over in a year. He’s an honest guy and was as well a remarkably nice player. I hope to notice him here again.” This sentiment underscores the respect Huiberts commands within Dutch football circles and highlights the potential for a successful partnership at De Kuip, Feyenoord’s iconic stadium.
Feyenoord has been actively searching for a suitable technical director for some time, with the responsibilities currently shared by general director Dennis te Kloese. A recent attempt to appoint Kees van Wonderen fell through at the last moment, further emphasizing the club’s need for a dedicated individual to oversee football strategy and player recruitment. Van Hanegem previously identified Huiberts as a potential candidate earlier this year and is now reiterating his support.
Beyond Huiberts, the Dutch football icon also envisions a role for Robert Eenhoorn, a former AZ director who maintains a strong affinity for Feyenoord. Van Hanegem believes a collaborative dynamic between Huiberts, Eenhoorn, and te Kloese could prove highly effective. “He [Te Kloese] can stay with us too, as he has also shown he knows where the good players are,” Van Hanegem stated. He anticipates no issues with such a structure, adding, “If they all have the best interests of the club at heart, it won’t matter.”
The timing of this potential move is particularly noteworthy. AZ Alkmaar, where Huiberts has been instrumental in developing talent and overseeing the club’s football operations, is currently navigating its own transition. AZ Alkmaar, known as “De Kaasboeren” (The Cheese Farmers), finished 5th in the 2024-25 Eredivisie season, and Huiberts’ departure marks the end of an era for the club. His track record at AZ, coupled with Van Hanegem’s endorsement, positions him as a strong contender for the Feyenoord position.
Van Hanegem’s comments extend beyond the technical director search, also touching on current players. He expressed concerns about the form of Raheem Sterling, suggesting the club should consider parting ways with the veteran forward, believing he no longer possesses the speed and fitness to significantly contribute to Feyenoord’s ambitions. Conversely, he highlighted the potential of Jordan Lotomba, praising his recent performance as a substitute and advocating for increased playing opportunities.
The situation at Feyenoord is complex. The club is aiming to build on recent successes, including a league title in 2022-23, and a strong technical director is seen as crucial to sustaining that momentum. The Eredivisie, the top tier of Dutch football, is becoming increasingly competitive, and Feyenoord will need a clear and effective football strategy to remain at the forefront.
Huiberts’ potential arrival could signal a shift in Feyenoord’s approach to player recruitment and development. His experience at AZ, a club renowned for its youth academy and data-driven approach, could bring a fresh perspective to Rotterdam. The prospect of a collaborative leadership structure, involving Huiberts, Eenhoorn, and te Kloese, suggests a commitment to a holistic and well-rounded football operation.
For now, Feyenoord fans will be watching closely as the club weighs its options and navigates the final stages of its search for a technical director. The club’s next match is against [Opponent to be confirmed], and the outcome will undoubtedly add further context to the ongoing discussions surrounding the future of its football leadership. The confirmation of a new technical director is expected in the coming weeks, and the appointment will be a pivotal moment for the club as it prepares for the challenges ahead.
What’s Next: Feyenoord will continue its evaluation process, with Max Huiberts remaining a leading candidate. An official announcement regarding the technical director position is anticipated before the start of the next transfer window.
What are your thoughts on Max Huiberts as a potential technical director for Feyenoord? Share your opinions in the comments below!
