Sc Heerenveen captain Maas Willemsen has outlined his ambitions for the future. The 23-year-old centre-back sees a move to the highest level as an achievable goal. "Champions League-niveau kan haalbaar is," Willemsen said in the Abe Lenstra stadium dressing room. The left-footed defender, who saw a multi-million euro bid from VfL Wolfsburg rejected by the club last summer, is now looking ahead to the next transfer window. He wants to continue his development in Friesland first but would consider leaving for a substantial fee next year. Willemsen emphasised that he believes he can reach the level of the Dutch top flight and that a move abroad or to a domestic top club is an option next year.
Self-analysis
Willemsen is a player who critically analyses his own game. For two years he has worked with a personal video analyst from the company Tactalyse to improve his performances. He studies in detail, for instance, a goal he conceded two weeks ago against AZ Alkmaar from Mexx Meerdink. "Het verbaast mij niet zo, omdat ik weet wat ik kan," he responded regarding his own growth. Manager Robin Veldman appointed him captain this season, a sign of trust in the leader who secured his starting spot five competitive matches after joining from De Graafschap and has not lost it since. Alongside his football career, Willemsen is studying Philosophy at Radboud University. He keeps a notebook of his long-term goals.
Context
Willemsen's comments come as Heerenveen sit 11th in the Eredivisie with six points from six games. The team has had an inconsistent start with a run of three draws and two defeats in their last five matches. In the recent 2-3 home loss to AZ, where Meerdink scored, Willemsen was central to the defence. The next fixture is away to Sparta Rotterdam, a direct rival in 12th place. The current standings and full squad provide context for Willemsen's aspirations. For now, the focus is on his role at Heerenveen, where he aims to contribute to better results with his analysis and leadership.
Future
Willemsen believes he can reach the level of the Dutch top flight and that a move abroad or to a domestic top club is an option next year. He wants to continue his development in Friesland first but would consider leaving for a substantial fee next year. The next test is Saturday against Sparta, a match where he will want to make his mark once again. Alongside his football career, Willemsen is studying Philosophy at Radboud University. He keeps a notebook of his long-term goals and believes he can reach the level of the Dutch top flight. For now, the focus is on his role at Heerenveen, where he aims to contribute to better results with his analysis and leadership.
More detail at ESPN.nl
