Eredivisie Off-Season Blueprint: How a Struggling Team Can Become a Contender in 2025-26
The tightrope of survival in this season’s Eredivisie was never more precarious. With just seven points separating eighth-placed sc Heerenveen from 16th-placed Sparta Rotterdam late last season, the margin for error among bottom-half clubs was dangerously slender. For teams like NAC Breda, Fortuna Sittard, Heracles Almelo, and Willem II—each battling at the lower end—turning things around requires a clear, modern blueprint rooted in current facts and league trends.
Defensive Overhaul Is a Must
Recent data from 2024 revealed that Heracles Almelo (13 points), FC Groningen (12), and Sparta Rotterdam (11) showed strong post-winter performance, while teams like NAC Breda, Fortuna Sittard, and especially Willem II slumped, collecting just five, four, and two points respectively after the break. These numbers underscore the importance of defensive solidity—both in personnel and tactical discipline. Any off-season plan should prioritize the recruitment of experienced defenders, as well as a proven defensive midfielder who can control transitions and protect the back line.
Smart Transfers and Developing Talent
Smart, targeted transfers are critical. While top-tier clubs splash out, struggling teams must be astute, targeting undervalued local talent or surplus players from the likes of Ajax, PSV, and Feyenoord, who regularly loan out young prospects. This season saw Ajax and Feyenoord conduct significant squad reshuffles, providing opportunities for shrewd pickups—particularly as Ajax themselves are recovering from an institutional crisis.
At the same time, integrating promising talents from Eredivisie academies is key to long-term sustainability. Clubs like AZ and FC Utrecht have demonstrated the value of blending in experienced heads with high-potential youth. Investing in both ends of the age spectrum helps shore up depth and maintains budget discipline.
Physical and Tactical Preparation
Lower-table teams cannot afford poor pre-season preparation. Intensive fitness regimens and a clear tactical identity can help close the gap versus more talented opposition. For example, Heracles Almelo’s surge in early 2024 was as much about outworking opponents as outplaying them.
Data-Driven Scouting and Set Piece Efficiency
Clubs should embrace analytics in player identification and match strategy. Exploiting set pieces and focusing on conversion rates—areas in which middle-table sides like sc Heerenveen and PEC Zwolle often excel—can offer an edge in games where margins are slim.
Conclusion: Opportunity Knocks for the Ambitious
With the 2025-26 campaign providing another opportunity for rebuilding teams to surprise, following this blueprint—defensive upgrades, smart recruitment, youth integration, pre-season focus, and embracing analytics—gives any struggling Eredivisie club their best shot at a top-half finish, or even a European playoff push.