Feyenoord New Signing Reiss Nelson Faces Race Against Time for Work Permit Ahead of Barcelona Clash

The Rotterdam club presented Nelson last week after finalising a deal to bring the attacker back to De Kuip. However, strict immigration procedures implemented for British nationals following the Brexit agreement have delayed the formal paperwork required for him to play. Those same administrative hurdles kept Nelson out of the squad last weekend when Feyenoord faced NEC in domestic competition.

Administrative Hurdles Threaten Champions League Debut

Feyenoord travels to Catalonia for a high-profile European clash scheduled for Wednesday at 18:45 local time. Club officials remain hopeful that the British player’s paperwork will clear before the squad boards its flight on Tuesday, but no formal confirmation has been issued yet. The delay highlights the ongoing complications clubs face when registering UK-based athletes under post-Brexit regulations.

If the permit arrives in time, trainer Giovanni van Bronckhorst gains a versatile attacking option for the continental test. Nelson expressed his determination to make an immediate impact upon his arrival, stating that he would do everything possible to add value to the squad quickly, as reported by the Algemeen Dagblad.

Squad Boost: Hadj-Moussa Returns After Transfer Saga

While Nelson’s availability hangs in the balance, Feyenoord received a definitive boost on the training ground with the return of Anis Hadj-Moussa. The winger missed the recent match against NEC after a proposed transfer to Al-Ittihad collapsed. According to local reports, that protracted transfer saga is now fully resolved, and Hadj-Moussa is back in contention for selection in the attacking third.

The reintegration of Hadj-Moussa provides crucial depth for van Bronckhorst as the club prepares for a demanding schedule that balances Eredivisie commitments with the rigors of the Champions League group stage.

Transfer Window Status and Next Steps

With Nelson added to the fold, Feyenoord’s technical staff considers the incoming transfer window officially closed. Outlets covering the club note that no further player acquisitions are planned before the deadline, signaling complete confidence in the current roster construction.

The immediate focus turns to Tuesday’s training session and travel arrangements. Final confirmation regarding Nelson’s work permit status is expected from club officials prior to the team’s departure for Barcelona.