Ricardo van Rhijn signed a contract with FC Emmen at the beginning of October. The 29-year-old defender has played 136 matches on behalf of Ajax and has also gained a lot of experience in the Champions League, for example. Critics can claim that Van Rhijn has thus not fulfilled his potential. “That’s right, you could say that indeed. But this is the path that I am now walking”, the back responds in conversation with the NOS.

After his departure from Ajax in 2016, Van Rhijn played consecutively at Club Brugge, AZ and sc Heerenveen. “Of course I would have preferred to go to Barcelona from Ajax, but that is reserved for a small group. I must be happy that I can play football at this level at a nice club”, said the defender, whose resume certainly impresses. the players of FC Emmen.

“They asked me about my best match and in which stadiums I played”, the veteran laughs. “Then I can name a nice list. I try to take those experiences with me on the field and to coach the boys here, I have to take on that role this season.” Van Rhijn acknowledges that FC Emmen was not his first option.

The defender enjoyed interest from clubs from Greece, Israel and France, but the right club did not sign up. “Everyone knows that I was hoping for that, but corona has had an impact on the football world. At a certain point you notice that it becomes a bit quiet in the market, both in general and with yourself. Those are nervous moments. Dan you think: it is now time for clarity, because that gives peace of mind. “