Defender Perr Schuurs is poised to play for N.E.C. Nijmegen after an absence of nearly three years. The 26-year-old is expected to be in the matchday squad for Saturday's away game against PEC Zwolle, as reported by Goal.com.
Schuurs suffered a serious knee injury in October 2023 while playing for his former club Torino against Inter Milan. The subsequent period was marked by multiple setbacks in his recovery. Before the injury, the defender was regarded as one of the better backline players in Serie A and even came close to a transfer to top club Inter. In 2025, Torino and Schuurs decided to part ways. N.E.C. Nijmegen then offered him a three-year contract in June 2026.
When will Perr Schuurs play again?
The first step towards his comeback will be taken on Saturday at 21:00 in the IJsseldelta Stadion. Head coach Dick Schreuder is likely to start Schuurs on the bench. His potential return to the pitch comes as NEC looks to put their midweek Champions League elimination against FK Bodø/Glimt behind them. The team won 1-4 against Willem II last weekend with goals from Adam Tahaui, Tjaronn Chery, Bryan Linssen and Kaj Sierhuis. The squad is also currently dealing with other absences: A. Kaplan, S. Ouaissa, P. Sandler, D. Fonville and D. Nejasmic are sidelined.
What does his contract mean for NEC?
The signing of a three-year deal by Perr Schuurs highlights the confidence the club has in him. It is a significant investment in the defence, especially given the current injury issues. Fans can follow the full team composition on our squad page. His arrival adds experience and quality to a line that will be thoroughly tested in the coming weeks.
What does NEC's schedule look like?
After the match against PEC Zwolle, NEC faces a busy period with European games. Friday's draw for the Europa League group stage was announced. NEC will face Benfica, Stade Rennes, Omonia Nicosia and Levski Sofia at home. The away fixtures are against Juventus, Dinamo Zagreb, NK Celje and Ararat-Armenia. The full schedule can be found on our fixtures page. Schuurs' return therefore comes at an ideal time.
Who are the other players in defence?
Alongside the returning Schuurs, coach Schreuder has several options for the defence. The injury status of players like Kaplan and Sandler can be tracked live on the injuries page. Schuurs' arrival offers more flexibility and depth, which is vital for competing in three tournaments. His first minutes since October 2023 could come this Saturday in Zwolle.
