Rotterdam – Américo Branco has publicly expressed his interest in the vacant technical director position at Feyenoord, signaling a potential shift in leadership for the Dutch Eredivisie club. The Rotterdam-based side is actively searching for a new director, having previously held discussions with Kees van Wonderen, and more recently, NEC director Carlos Aalbers, according to reports.
Branco, 35, has spent the last four seasons as the technical director at Fortuna Sittard, where he oversaw a positive transfer balance and helped establish the club as a stable mid-table team in the Eredivisie. Though, he will be leaving Fortuna at the end of the current season, despite having a contract that ran until the summer of 2027, which has been mutually terminated. “We are parting ways amicably,” Branco stated.
Speaking with Voetbal International, Branco declined to elaborate on the reasons behind his departure from Fortuna, stating, “A four-year tenure is a long time in modern football. Following the arrival of new shareholders and board members in late November, we began discussions about the future. In a civilized manner, without conflict, we came to the conclusion that it is best if our paths diverge after this season.”
While Branco remains open to various opportunities, he specifically highlighted Feyenoord as a club that aligns with his ambitions. “Secretly, I hope for a chance at a big club in the Netherlands. I think Feyenoord would be the best fit for me,” he said. “I am confident that I could add value there. But I also know that former players with a name will likely be considered first. That also scores better with the supporters.”
Branco’s career trajectory demonstrates a deliberate approach to his professional development. He recently turned down several financially lucrative offers from leagues he deemed less competitive, as well as an offer from a club in Portugal. He explained his reasoning, stating, “Last summer, I rejected a number of lucrative financial offers from less good competitions. And recently, a good club in Portugal…”
A return to Portugal, however, doesn’t currently appeal to Branco, citing concerns about the climate within Portuguese football. “No, I see too many things in Portuguese football that I don’t like. The struggle between clubs. The aggression. The treatment of referees. In that regard, Portugal could learn from the Netherlands,” he commented.
The search for a new technical director at Feyenoord comes at a crucial time for the club, as they look to build on recent successes and maintain their competitive edge in the Eredivisie and European competitions. The role will be pivotal in shaping the club’s transfer strategy and overall footballing philosophy.
Adding another layer to the potential candidates, Carlos Aalbers, the current technical director at NEC, has also been linked with the position. Aalbers, a former NEC midfielder, has a long history with the club, both as a player and administrator. According to Wikipedia, Aalbers’s contract with NEC runs through June 30, 2029, suggesting any move to Feyenoord would require negotiation with his current employer. He previously served as technical director at NEC from 2007-2013 and again starting in 2022, with stints at Willem II, FC Groningen, and AZ in between.
Branco’s experience at Fortuna Sittard, where he successfully navigated the transfer market and stabilized the club, makes him an attractive candidate. His relatively young age also suggests a long-term vision and a willingness to embrace modern footballing practices. The decision ultimately rests with Feyenoord’s board, who will weigh the merits of Branco, Aalbers, and any other potential candidates as they seek to identify the best person to lead their football operations.
Feyenoord fans will be watching the developments closely, eager to see who will be entrusted with shaping the future of their beloved club. The appointment of a new technical director is a significant step, and the right choice could have a lasting impact on Feyenoord’s fortunes.
The next step for Feyenoord is to continue their search and interview process. No timeline has been publicly announced for a final decision, but the club is expected to move swiftly to appoint a new technical director before the start of the next transfer window.
