NEC Nijmegen begins the new football season with a historic European challenge. The club from Gelderland is playing in the league phase of a major European competition for the first time, a direct result of last campaign's third-place Eredivisie finish under manager Dick Schreuder.
This achievement was reported this week by Vavel. It marks a new peak for the club founded on 15 November 1900 from the union of two local societies, Eendracht and NVV Nijmegen. The team plays its home matches at the Goffertstadion and wears the distinctive red kit with a broad green chest band.
Which players are missing the start?
The start of this special season is however tempered by absences in the squad. Four players are currently sidelined. Defenders D. Fonville and A. Kaplan are unavailable, as are midfielder E. Mor and forward P. Sandler. Their exact return dates are not yet known, posing a selection puzzle for coach Schreuder.
This situation makes the squad page particularly relevant for supporters tracking the current roster. The team must show its quality in the coming weeks despite this setback.
How did NEC reach this historic position?
Last season's success was no fluke. Under Dick Schreuder's leadership, NEC Nijmegen developed into a consistent force in the Eredivisie. The third-place finish was the club's best in years and delivered European football directly. That performance sets a new standard for the club.
The road to Europe began long ago in the streets of Nijmegen. The merger of two local clubs laid the foundation over a century ago for what is now an established Eredivisie side. That history makes the current European qualification all the more significant.
What does European football mean for the club?
Participation in a European competition's league phase brings new experiences and challenges. It means more matches, travel to unfamiliar opponents, and a busier schedule. For the players, it's a chance to prove themselves on a bigger stage.
Financially it opens new possibilities, but it also tests the fixture list. Fans can consult the full fixtures schedule to see all upcoming matches. Combining European games with the league will test the squad's endurance.
What does the future look like?
The main goal for NEC Nijmegen now is to maintain this European status. The club wants to prove last season was not a one-off. The coming months will show if the team can sustain this level while competing on multiple fronts.
The standings will indicate how the club is performing in the Eredivisie. A good league position remains essential for repeating the European adventure. The first step has been taken with qualification for the league phase, a milestone in the club's history. The next home match at Goffertstadion is scheduled for 14 September 2026.
