Headline: Sneijder Advises Nijstad to Gain Experience Before Joining Elite European Club
Former Real Madrid and Netherlands midfielder Wesley Sneijder asserts that Barcelona transfer target Ruud Nijstad should consider an intermediate step in Dutch football prior to moving to a top-tier European club.
During an appearance on Ziggo Sport’s program Rondo (h/t Mundo Deportivo), Sneijder proposed that clubs like Ajax, PSV, or Feyenoord could provide the 18-year-old FC Twente defender with essential experience before making a significant career transition.
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It is noteworthy that Barcelona was one of several European clubs keeping an eye on Nijstad during the summer transfer period.
Despite the interest from the Catalan club, the young Dutch talent opted to further his development at Twente, where he signed an extension of his contract until 2029.
Sneijder believes Nijstad needs experience before joining Barcelona
Sneijder regards Nijstad as a defender with significant potential but questions the wisdom of a leap to a major club at this point in his career.
“He would be better off playing for Ajax, PSV, or Feyenoord,” the former Netherlands international recommended.
Barcelona was interested in signing Ruud Nijstad. (Photo courtesy: X/fctwente)
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“If you don’t perform well for two games, you’re out. I would consider it a waste for a player like him,” he remarked.
Ajax, PSV or Feyenoord could provide the ideal stepping stone
Sneijder emphasizes that Nijstad needs to gain international experience and establish his presence before entering the competitive environment of a premier European team.
“I always think that you should only join an elite club once you’ve gained experience,” he noted.
“Ruud has the potential for success, but you need to start playing international matches so that you become better known and people talk about you more.
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“You need to arrive at certain places with more experience because if you don’t perform well for two matches, you’re out, and I would consider that a waste for a player like him,” he cautioned.
Sneijder believes Nijstad should aspire to represent the Netherlands and compete in European football.
Sneijder has advised Ruud Nijstad to join a smaller club. (Photo by Mateo Villalba Sanchez/Getty Images for DFB)
“Perhaps an intermediate step would be Ajax, PSV, or Feyenoord; it wouldn’t be crazy. Later on, he will generate a lot of income,” he expressed.
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Dean Huijsen example shows potential risks
Sneijder highlighted Dean Huijsen’s time at Real Madrid to illustrate the intense demands young defenders face when joining elite clubs.
“They’re ruthless at those kinds of clubs,” he cautioned.
For the moment, Nijstad’s choice to remain at Twente allows him to focus on his development through regular matches rather than facing the pressures of competing for a position at Barcelona.
Barcelona is expected to seek a new defender in January, yet Nijstad appears distant from their list, with no solid indication that the club would renew its interest.
