FC Twente fans have voiced strong criticism toward defender Mees Hilgers following his absence from the club’s first training session of the season, with some calling for his immediate dismissal, according to multiple Dutch media outlets. The 26-year-old, who has made 132 appearances for the Eredivisie club, reportedly skipped the session on August 14, sparking a backlash from supporters and prompting speculation about his future with the team.
What Happened?
According to reports from VIVA.co.id and OneFootball, Hilgers failed to attend FC Twente’s initial training session of the 2023-24 campaign, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from fans and local media. The Dutch defender, who is currently under contract with the club, has not publicly explained his absence, leading to questions about his commitment. FC Twente has yet to issue an official statement, but sources close to the club suggest the team is “disappointed” by the incident.
Hilgers, a key figure in the Netherlands’ 2022 World Cup squad, signed a contract extension with FC Twente in June 2023, which automatically renewed for another season. His absence has fueled rumors about a potential transfer to Feyenoord, though no formal offers have been confirmed. The defender has not commented on the speculation, and his agent has not responded to requests for clarification.
Why It Matters Now
The incident has intensified scrutiny on Hilgers’ role at FC Twente, a club that has struggled with injuries and inconsistent performances in recent seasons. The defender’s absence from training raises concerns about his fitness and dedication, particularly as the Eredivisie season approaches. FC Twente finished 12th in the 2022-23 campaign, and manager Gert Kruis has emphasized the need for “discipline and focus” from his squad ahead of the new season.
Local media have also highlighted the broader implications of the situation. “This is not just about one player,” said sportswriter Arjen van den Berg of De Telegraaf. “It’s about the culture of accountability in Dutch football. Players are expected to show up, especially when contracts are extended.” The backlash from fans underscores the high expectations for Hilgers, who has been a consistent performer for both club and country.
What’s Next?
FC Twente is expected to address the issue in the coming days, with the club likely to issue a formal statement or hold a press conference. The defender’s next move will depend on his response to the criticism and the club’s decision on how to proceed. If Hilgers fails to attend subsequent training sessions, the club may consider disciplinary action or explore transfer options.
Meanwhile, the Dutch media has begun speculating about Hilgers’ potential move to Feyenoord, a club with which he has been linked in the past. However, no concrete offers have been reported, and FC Twente has not indicated a willingness to sell the player. The situation remains fluid, with updates expected as the transfer window progresses.
Context and Background
Hilgers, a 6’2″ center-back, has been a staple for FC Twente since joining the club in 2017. His performances earned him a call-up to the Netherlands national team, where he has made 12 appearances, including a key role in the 2022 World Cup campaign. Despite his international experience, Hilgers has faced criticism in recent seasons for inconsistent form, with some fans questioning his ability to lead the defense.
The defender’s contract extension in June 2023 was seen as a vote of confidence from FC Twente, but the recent incident has cast doubt on his future. The club’s board has emphasized the importance of “team unity” in a statement released earlier this month, suggesting that Hilgers’ actions could have broader implications for the squad’s morale.
How Fans Are Reacting
Online forums and social media have been dominated by discussions about Hilgers’ absence, with many fans expressing frustration. A petition demanding his release, titled “Mees Hilgers: Out Now,” has gained over 10,000 signatures on Change.org. Supporters argue that the defender’s actions set a poor example for younger players and undermine the club’s efforts to rebuild.
However, not all fans share this view. Some have defended Hilgers, citing his past contributions and suggesting that the situation may be more complex than it appears. “We don’t know the full story,” said one commenter on the FC Twente fan forum. “Maybe there’s a personal issue we’re not aware of.”
What This Means for the Season
The incident has added to the uncertainty surrounding FC Twente’s preparations for the new season. Manager Gert Kruis has already faced criticism for his squad’s lack of depth, and Hilgers’ absence could exacerbate these concerns. The club’s priority now is to stabilize the defense, with potential signings of younger players being considered as a long-term solution.
For Hilgers, the situation presents a critical crossroads. His ability to reconcile with the club and demonstrate renewed commitment will be key to his future at FC Twente. If he fails to address the concerns, the pressure to leave the club could intensify, with other Eredivisie teams potentially showing interest.
The next confirmed checkpoint for FC Twente is their pre-season match against AZ Alkmaar on August 27. The outcome of that game, along with any official statements from the club, will provide further clarity on Hilgers’ situation.
As the story develops, Archysport will continue to monitor updates and provide in-depth coverage. Fans and followers are encouraged to stay tuned for the latest information and to share their perspectives in the comments section below.
