A Homecoming in the Champions League
Inter Milan defender Stefan de Vrij is gearing up for a highly emotional return to his roots as the Nerazzurri prepare to face Feyenoord in the upcoming Champions League round of sixteen. De Vrij, a Netherlands international, made his professional debut and honed his skills at Feyenoord, a club that remains deeply etched in his heart. The 33-year-old spoke to Dutch outlet Voetbal International, expressing his nostalgia and anticipation for the match. "I can’t wait," he said, his excitement palpable. "When the possibility opened up for it, I really hoped that this would be the draw. I’ve always wanted to play against Feyenoord, because for me it will be like returning home."
Early Days at Feyenoord
Stefan de Vrij’s journey in football began at Feyenoord, the Rotterdam-based club that nurtured him during his formative years. It was here that the young Dutchman first showcased his defensive prowess, catching the eye of scouts and coaches alike. De Vrij’s undeniable talent earned him a place in the Netherlands squad for the 2014 World Cup, marking a significant milestone in his career. Following the World Cup, he made a move to Lazio in the summer of 2014, where he further developed into one of Serie A’s standout defenders. His four-season stint with the Biancocelesti was a testament to his growing abilities and the solid foundation laid at Feyenoord.
A Journey to the Top
In 2018, Inter Milan secured a major free transfer coup by signing Stefan de Vrij after his contract with Lazio expired. Since then, the 33-year-old has been a cornerstone of the Nerazzurri defense. With Inter, de Vrij has achieved significant success, adding several trophies to his collection. He has won the Serie A title twice, the Coppa Italia twice, and the Supercoppa Italiana twice. Additionally, the club has reached the Champions League and Europa League finals during his tenure, and he has helped secure a second-place finish in Serie A on two occasions. De Vrij’s contributions have been invaluable, both on and off the pitch.
Emotional Bonds and Professional Respect
Now, as Inter Milan prepares to face Feyenoord, de Vrij is not just looking forward to the match; he is bracing himself for a return to a place that holds deep sentimental value. "I grew up there," he reminisced. "I owe a lot to that club, Feyenoord, and it still holds a special place in my heart." The defender’s connection to Feyenoord is not just nostalgic; it is rooted in the respect and gratitude he feels for the club that provided him with his early opportunities. De Vrij’s anticipation is tinged with a blend of excitement and reverence, making this tie particularly meaningful for him.
Feyenoord’s Recent Success
Feyenoord’s current form in the Champions League is a testament to their strength and resilience. The Rotterdam club has already made waves by beating Portuguese giants Benfica and pulling off a brilliant comeback against Manchester City. They also managed to defeat Bayern Munich and knock out AC Milan, Inter’s city rivals. De Vrij is well aware of Feyenoord’s capabilities and warns that the upcoming match will be far from a walk in the park. "Feyenoord are having a great Champions League," he stated. "They’ve shown that they can compete at the highest level, and we need to be at our best to get past them."
Preparing for a Tough Battle
Although de Vrij is eager to return home, he is not taking Feyenoord lightly. "So it’ll be anything but easy for us," he emphasized. "Because Feyenoord have a strong team, particularly if they also get back some of the players who are out injured." The veteran defender’s experience and insights will be crucial for Inter as they prepare to face a formidable opponent. De Vrij’s familiarity with the club, its players, and the passionate atmosphere of the De Kuip stadium will undoubtedly play a significant role in the team’s strategy. As the match approaches, the emotions and professional challenges will collide, making it a pivotal moment in de Vrij’s illustrious career.
