Feyenoord Faces Challenges Ahead of Match Against NAC Breda

ROTTERDAM, Netherlands – Following the excitement of their recent match against AC Milan, Feyenoord shifts its focus to a crucial league game against NAC Breda scheduled for Saturday evening. Interim coach Pascal Bosschaart contends with several challenges as he prepares his squad for the encounter.

The most pressing issue is the injury of Quinten Timber, who sustained a painful knee injury during Wednesday’s game. While a definitive diagnosis has yet to be confirmed, fears are mounting regarding a lengthy rehabilitation period, meaning Timber will not be available for the upcoming fixture. Bosschaart commented, “It looked bad, as we all saw, but I cannot provide more details at this time.”

This injury amplifies Bosschaart’s midfield dilemmas, with other key players like Calvin Stengs, Chris-Kévin Nadje, In-Beom Hwang, and Ramiz Zerrouki also sidelined. However, there is a glimmer of hope as Oussama Targhalline joins the match squad for the first time, potentially starting in the game. Another option for the interim coach is Luka Ivanusec, who could take on an attacking midfield role, alongside Shiloh ‘t Zand or Tobias van den Elshout.

Jakub Moder, who made a notable impact in the Champions League, is expected to start alongside Antoni Milambo. The defense is limited as well, with Bosschaart seemingly set to make just one positional change. Quilindschy Hartman is anticipated to reclaim his spot in the starting lineup, allowing Gijs Smal to rest ahead of the return leg against AC Milan.

As for the attacking front, questions loom over whether Bosschaart will make changes, resting players for the upcoming match against Milan. Igor Paixão and Anis Hadj Moussa have been particularly active, with expectations high that they will contribute significantly in the return match. Currently, only Ayase Ueda is unlikely to start, after experiencing discomfort during halftime against AC Milan.

Besides Targhalline, Feyenoord’s newest signing, an 18-year-old Mexican striker, will also be included in the lineup. While he made a strong impression in training, Coach Bosschaart stated, “Carrillo only trained with us for the first time on Friday. It’s difficult for me to assess his full capabilities yet.”

The possible starting lineup against NAC Breda would be: Wellenreuther; Read, Beelen, Hancko, Hartman; Moder, Targhalline, Milambo; Hadj Moussa, Carranza, Paixão.

While the focus is on the current match, internal tensions within Feyenoord have surfaced. There are rising concerns regarding the influence of Sjaak Troost, who is reportedly asserting significant control over club decisions. Former player Pierre van Hooijdonk voiced his perspective on Ziggo Sport, stating, “We’ll soon uncover who really holds the reins at Feyenoord.”

Troost is particularly influential regarding the coaching situation. The club has begun the search for a new head coach, with various names circulating in the media, including Marino Pusic, Giovanni van Bronckhorst, and Erik ten Hag. Speculation is rife as the Rotterdam club considers their next move amid conflicting sentiments within the organization.

The ongoing uncertainty places Pascal Bosschaart in the spotlight as he leads the team temporarily, with arrangements for a successor being a pressing priority.