What did Hoefkens actually say?

NAC Breda manager Stijn Hoefkens made it crystal clear on July 3, 2026, that players who don’t give extra effort will "just be a mediocre footballer." In a press conference he stressed the club must now fight for every point to escape the relegation zone.

Why is this so urgent now?

The team currently sits 17th in the Eredivisie with 29 points, a record of 6 wins, 11 draws and 17 losses from 34 games. The latest result against AZ Alkmaar ended 3‑3 on May 17, 2026, but form is erratic: the last five matches produced 2 wins, 2 draws and 1 loss (DDWWL, most recent first). With 35 goals scored and 58 conceded, the goal difference sits at -23, underscoring the urgency of Hoefkens’ warning.

How are the players reacting?

Players like Jens Odgaard and Milan van Ewijk admitted they feel the pressure. Odgaard said he now "has to make the most of every training session" to raise his level. Van Ewijk added the defence must learn to "recover faster after a mistake." The coach then scheduled an extra training session focused on mental resilience and quick transitions.

What does this mean for upcoming fixtures?

Being 55 points behind leaders PSV Eindhoven makes a title chase unrealistic, but every point could decide staying up or dropping down. Hoefkens noted the focus will be on direct rivals at the bottom, such as FC Emmen and SC Cambuur, who share the battle for the last safe spot. The upcoming match against FC Utrecht on August 15 is seen as a key test for the new mindset.

How does this fit the club’s broader strategy?

The board recently approved a €2.5 million budget increase to strengthen the squad, but Hoefkens stresses money alone isn’t enough. "We must change the mentality, otherwise we stay behind the numbers," he said. The next weeks will see both tactical and psychological tweaks, hoping form steadies and the club escapes the relegation zone.

Statistics (as of 09‑07‑2026): 17th place, 29 points, 6‑11‑17, 35 scored, 58 conceded, -23 GD, recent form DDWWL.