Nijmegen, Netherlands — NEC Nijmegen head coach Dick Schreuder emphasized that his players are regaining their positive spirit following the club’s recent KNVB Cup final loss, dismissing external criticism of his tactical approach as the team prepares for its final Eredivisie fixtures.
Speaking after Wednesday’s training session, Schreuder noted visible signs of recovery among his squad after the 5-1 defeat to AZ Alkmaar in the cup final. “The players came back with a smile,” Schreuder said, according to De Gelderlander. “on Wednesday there was laughter during training.”
The coach acknowledged the emotional toll of losing the final but stressed that the team’s mindset has shifted back toward focusing on remaining league objectives. NEC currently sits third in the Eredivisie standings, maintaining qualification hopes for European competition next season.
Schreuder directly addressed growing scrutiny of his tactical decisions, particularly following the cup final performance. “I wave away criticism of my tactical plan,” he stated. “We have enough to play for this season.”
The Dutch tactician’s comments come amid ongoing speculation about his future at the club. Recent reports indicate that Schreuder, who has a contract running through 2028, is increasingly likely to depart NEC after this season due to what sources describe as an “enorme bewijsdrang” — an intense drive to prove himself at a higher level.
NEC’s sporting director Marcel Boekhoorn previously expressed confidence in Schreuder’s continued presence, stating he “would like him to stay.” But, subsequent reporting suggests Boekhoorn now acknowledges the likelihood of Schreuder’s departure, calling his own earlier stance “a naive thought.”
Schreuder, 54, obtained his highest coaching diploma only five years ago, which sources say fuels his ambition to manage one of the Netherlands’ traditional top clubs — Ajax, Feyenoord, or PSV. His strong operate with NEC, which has exceeded expectations this season, has reportedly drawn interest from those clubs.
“Given NEC’s current success, it seems only a matter of time before such an opportunity arises,” De Gelderlander reported, noting that Schreuder appears open to a summer transfer despite his long-term contract.
The team’s ability to maintain morale after a significant loss will be tested in upcoming matches as NEC pushes to secure a European qualification spot through its league position. Schreuder’s focus remains on ensuring the squad approaches each game with the resilience and unity demonstrated in recent training sessions.
NEC’s next fixture is against FC Utrecht in an Eredivisie match scheduled for the coming weekend. The club will look to build on the positive atmosphere observed during midweek training as it pursues its seasonal objectives.
As the season enters its final stretch, the balance between processing disappointment and maintaining competitive focus will be crucial for NEC’s aspirations. Schreuder’s emphasis on reclaiming joy in training reflects a broader effort to sustain performance levels despite external pressures and internal ambitions.
For continued updates on NEC’s pursuit of European qualification and developments regarding Dick Schreuder’s future, follow official club channels and trusted sports news outlets.
