Van den Brom Addresses “Overlarge” Squad Structure Amid Van Hoorenbeeck Departure

In his first public remarks since the start of pre-season, Van den Brom told Dutch media that the club’s current squad size presents a “structural challenge” for tactical development. “We have a group that is too large for optimal training,” he said during a team meeting Monday. “This makes it difficult to implement the specific training methods we want.”

The departure of Van Hoorenbeeck—who joined Twente from AZ Alkmaar in 2023—has left a void in the coaching staff, according to club sources. Van Hoorenbeeck’s role focused on player development and tactical analysis, areas Van den Brom has described as “critical” for Twente’s long-term project. The club has not yet named a replacement.

Eredivisie records show Twente currently operates with 28 professional contracts, including academy graduates and loan players. By comparison, league leaders Ajax maintain 24 contracted players, while mid-table sides typically field 20-22. Van den Brom’s comments suggest the club may reduce squad numbers ahead of the transfer window closing August 1.

Polish Midfield Target: Jakub Moder’s Profile and Transfer Timeline

Sources close to Twente confirm the club is advancing talks with Legia Warsaw over 19-year-old midfielder Jakub Moder, who has drawn comparisons to former Poland international Jakub Błaszczykowski. Moder, a product of Legia’s academy, has made 12 appearances in Poland’s top flight this season, recording three assists.

According to Transfermarkt, Moder’s release clause stands at €1.5 million, with Legia reportedly seeking €2 million. Twente’s transfer committee has approved initial contact, though financial details remain under negotiation. A formal offer is expected by July 22.

If completed, Moder would join a Twente midfield that has struggled with consistency in recent campaigns. Last season’s Eredivisie stats show the team ranked 12th in midfield passing accuracy (78.1%) and 15th in progressive carries per game (24.7), figures that align with league-wide concerns over Twente’s attacking transition.

Pre-Season Concerns: Training Camp Safety and Tactical Readiness

Twente’s pre-season schedule has faced scrutiny after a training session in Enschede was canceled last week due to “extreme heat conditions,” according to a club statement. Medical staff reported “cognitive impairment risks” among players during the session, prompting a review of training protocols.

KNVB guidelines for professional football training in temperatures above 30°C (86°F) were cited in internal meetings, though Twente has not disclosed specific violations. The club’s medical director, Dr. Jeroen van der Meer, told local press, “We’re adjusting our schedule to prioritize player safety while maintaining intensity.”

First-team training resumed Monday with a focus on defensive structures, as Van den Brom has emphasized rebuilding the backline following last season’s defensive struggles. The team’s Eredivisie defensive record—ranked 16th in goals conceded (54)—remains a priority for the coaching staff.

What Happens Next: Transfer Window, Squad Cuts, and Fixture Challenges

The next critical checkpoint for Twente is the August 1 transfer window closure. Sources indicate the club is monitoring three additional targets:

• Defender: 22-year-old Dutch international Daan Kroesen (currently at SC Heerenveen) for a reported €2.5 million.
• Midfielder: Belgian under-21 international Mathys van de Ven (KV Mechelen) for €3 million.
• Striker: 20-year-old Dutch forward Daan Klumper (Excelsior Rotterdam) on loan with an option to buy.

Squad reductions are expected to begin July 18, with non-first-team players given first consideration. The club’s youth academy has expressed concerns over potential cuts, particularly for U-19 players who have been integrated into the professional setup.

Twente’s first competitive fixture of the season is a UEFA Europa Conference League qualifier against FC Basel on July 25 (20:00 CET/UTC+2). The match will serve as a key test for Van den Brom’s tactical adjustments and the new squad structure.

Fan and Analyst Reactions: “Project Twente” Under Pressure

Local fan forums reflect growing impatience with the club’s transfer strategy. A survey of 500 Twente supporters by Twentefans.nl revealed 68% believe the squad lacks “competitive depth” for the Eredivisie. “We need a clear plan, not just rumors about young players,” said Enschede-based analyst Mark de Jong.

In contrast, sports data analyst Squawka projects Twente as a “dark horse” for mid-table finishes, citing their youth development pipeline. “The club’s academy has produced 12 Eredivisie players in the last five years—more than any other Eredivisie side,” their latest report states.

Van den Brom’s tenure at Twente has been marked by high expectations and mixed results. Since taking charge in 2020, the team has finished 10th, 12th, and 14th in the Eredivisie, with a peak of 9th place in 2021-22. This season’s campaign will be his first without Van Hoorenbeeck’s tactical input.