Football Season Guide

Since returning to the Eredivisie in 2024/2025, Groningen have obtained two quiet salvations. The past campaign in particular was a bit of a success since they found themselves actually fighting for a top 5 finish until mid-January. Then, they faced a deep crisis, losing 6 games straight, but managed to straighten the ship on time and closed the season on the 9th spot, 11 points below the top 4. Having qualified to the playoffs for a place in the Conference League, Groningen were eventually eliminated by Ajax, who defeated them 2-0 away. While they were not particularly bright offensively, also due to the lack of a prolific striker, they were very solid defensively: they held the 5th-best defence of the league, conceding 45 goals, just like triumphing PSV. Charismatic coach Dick Lukkien will thus lead the team for the 4th season in a row. He will not have an easy life this time around since he lost the back-bone of his squad and not all of the departed players were properly replaced yet. Starting centre-back Janse had to return to his parent club while starting left-back Peersman was let go as he was not getting any younger. No centre-back was signed yet while unknown left-back Brandis may be acting as deputy with Prins stepping up in the XI. The midfield remained basically untouched since they re-signed Hernes from Newcastle United and added experienced Clement back from a loan at Sparta Rotterdam. Last but not least, the attack suffered a major blow as their main offensive threat, key winger Taha, capable of 6 goals and 10 assists last season, had to return to Twente. Again, Groningen have not properly replaced him, thus leaving coach Lukkien with a squad full of holes. Elsewhere, back-up goalie Jurjus was released with promising Janse arriving from NEC Nijmegen, while back-up attacking midfielder Seuntjens will not be missed after a season spent warming the bench.