Twenty-six-year-old Dutch winger Steven Bergwijn shared his reasons for moving to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. Prior to this transfer, he played for Ajax, where he showcased his skills and made a significant impact on the team. Bergwijn explained that the opportunity to join Al-Ittihad was exciting, as it allows him to experience a new league and culture. He emphasized that playing in Saudi Arabia presents a unique challenge, which he finds appealing. The chance to compete at a high level while exploring a different footballing environment was a motivating factor in his decision.
The winger also mentioned the ambitions of Al-Ittihad as an important reason for his move. The club has a rich history and aims to reclaim its status as one of the top teams in the region. Bergwijn believes he can contribute to the team’s success and help achieve their goals. Overall, Bergwijn is enthusiastic about this new chapter in his career and is eager to embrace the challenges that lie ahead in the Saudi Pro League. He looks forward to making an impact at Al-Ittihad and continuing to develop as a player in a fresh and dynamic environment.
“Al-Ittihad is a unique club. I’ve heard many names of clubs that were interested in me, but they never followed through. Financially, this move is a significant improvement for me, and I’m honest about that. However, what excites me about Al-Ittihad is the sporting aspect, as they have top players like Karim Benzema, Moussa Diaby, Danilo Pereira, N’Golo Kante, and Fabinho. I’m eager to become teammates with such world-class talent. The Saudi Professional League is also poised to grow stronger in the coming years.
When asked which new teammate he is most looking forward to meeting, Bergwijn said, “Of course, Benzema. He’s a former Real Madrid player, a Ballon d’Or winner, and a fantastic striker,” as reported by De Telegraaf. Bergwijn’s move to Al-Ittihad marks an exciting new chapter in his career, transitioning from Ajax, where he developed into a key player. During his time at Ajax, he showcased his exceptional dribbling skills, speed, and goal-scoring ability, becoming an integral part of the team’s attacking lineup. His performances in the Eredivisie and European competitions drew the attention of clubs around the world, but the opportunity to join Al-Ittihad offered a fresh perspective.
One of the aspects Bergwijn highlighted was the appeal of playing alongside established stars. Being in a team with high-caliber players provides a valuable opportunity for personal growth and development. He believes that training and competing alongside such experienced players will elevate his game, helping him adapt to different styles of play and strategies. The camaraderie that comes from playing with world-class talent also creates an environment where everyone strives for excellence.
Bergwijn also expressed enthusiasm about the Saudi Professional League’s increasing competitiveness. With more clubs investing in top talent, the league is evolving rapidly. He noted that this growth presents a unique opportunity for players to showcase their skills and compete at a high level, contributing to the global appeal of the league. The interest in Saudi football is on the rise, with clubs attracting international stars, and Bergwijn is excited to be part of this transformation. Moreover, Bergwijn’s decision reflects a broader trend among players considering moves to leagues outside Europe. As football becomes more globalized, players are exploring opportunities in various regions, and the financial incentives are often significant. However, Bergwijn emphasized that his choice was not solely about the financial aspect; the prospect of playing in a competitive environment with top players also played a crucial role.
His excitement about joining Al-Ittihad stems from the club’s ambitions as well. The team is determined to make a mark in both domestic and international competitions, and Bergwijn sees himself contributing to that vision. He believes that with the right mix of talent and determination, Al-Ittihad can achieve great things in the coming seasons. In addition to his professional goals, Bergwijn is also looking forward to experiencing a new culture and lifestyle in Saudi Arabia. The opportunity to immerse himself in a different country, with its rich history and traditions, adds another layer of excitement to this move. He is eager to learn about the local culture, engage with fans, and adapt to the new environment.
Bergwijn’s journey reflects the evolving landscape of football, where players are increasingly open to new experiences beyond traditional European leagues. The Saudi Professional League’s efforts to enhance its profile globally are evident, and players like Bergwijn are contributing to that narrative. As he prepares for this new chapter, Bergwijn is focused on integrating into the team and making a positive impact on and off the pitch. His dedication to training and commitment to teamwork will be essential as he settles into his role at Al-Ittihad. The support from the club, coaches, and fellow players will undoubtedly play a crucial part in his adjustment period.
In conclusion, Steven Bergwijn’s decision to join Al-Ittihad reflects a combination of financial improvement and the exciting prospect of playing with world-class players. His eagerness to learn and grow in a competitive environment speaks to his ambition as a professional athlete. As the Saudi Professional League continues to evolve, players like Bergwijn are at the forefront of this change, bringing new energy and talent to the league while also broadening their own horizons in the world of football. With high hopes for his future, Bergwijn is ready to embrace this opportunity and contribute to Al-Ittihad’s success in the years to come.”
