Eredivisie End of Season Review: AZ Alkmaar | OneFootball

Finish position: 5th

Overview:

AZ Alkmaar enjoyed a topsy-turvy campaign; with long unbeaten runs in December and May, contrasted by barren spells in October and April. Their dramatic play off final victory against FC Twente, coming from 2-0 to win 3-2 through Ibrahim Sadiq’s 93rd minute winner, has secured Conference League football for next year. Their most memorable result in the league came against Ajax in December; a 2-1 win at AFAS stadium.

In other competitions, they suffered KNVB cup heartache against Go Ahead Eagles. Knocking out Ajax on the route to the final, they conceded a 99th minute equaliser, before losing 4-2 on penalties. In the Europa league, they recorded big home wins against Roma, Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray, as well as a 1-0 victory in the quarter-final first leg against Spurs. However, they were knocked out in the second leg following 3-1 defeat, as Spurs went on to win the whole competition.

Player of the Season: Peer Koopmeiners

Despite Troy Parrott’s impressive 14-goal return, Koopmeiners has been pivotal for this Alkmaar side, starting all but one of their league games. Registering one goal and seven assists, his influence is one of the key reasons De Kaasboeren have qualified for Conference League qualifying round.

Young Player of the Season: Ruben van Bommel

This campaign has seen van Bommel’s breakthrough year, establishing himself as a consistent starter on the left wing. His eight goal contributions in the Eredivisie, as well as important contributions in the Europa League, has propelled his development and turned him into one of the league’s brightest prospects. As reported by De Telegraaf, Van Bommel has spoken about how this season has been positive for him personally. “Too bad the season is over, I was starting to get in better shape”.

Summer needs:

AZ have already made one acquisition, with young defender Mexican defender Mateo Chávez from Chivas. The 21-year-old full back has signed a deal until June 2030, and has been thoroughly impressive this season.

Troy Parrot has also been linked with several Premier League clubs, therefore AZ may need to bring a striker through the door. Parrot’s 14 goals have been influential, and will be a big miss should he leave the club.

Grade: A-

GBENeFN | Samuel Fabre