The Dutch center-back Jan Paul van Hecke took the stage at a press conference in Houston just one day before the Netherlands face Sweden. The session, held on Friday evening, comes only three days after his high-profile move to Tottenham was finalized.
A massive step for the Oranje defender
When asked how it feels to be a player valued at €60 million, Jan Paul van Hecke couldn’t help but smile. He admitted that while discussing price tags is complicated, he is primarily pleased for his previous clubs. He emphasized that the figure won’t change who he is, though he expressed immense pride in joining one of the Premier League‘s elite teams.
The defender appeared with a noticeable black eye, though he clarified it had nothing to do with his coach, Ronald Koeman, who sat beside him. Despite the whirlwind of his transfer from Brighton to Tottenham, he insisted his mind is strictly on the upcoming match. He noted that the national team staff allowed him the necessary time to finalize his move, ensuring he remains fully integrated with the Netherlands squad.
“Being here is an incredible experience; I am so proud to represent my country,” Jan Paul van Hecke shared.
Focusing on the 2026 World Cup
After a 2-2 draw against Japan in their opening fixture, the Netherlands are preparing for a tough challenge against Sweden‘s strike force of Isak and Gyökeres. Having faced both in England, Jan Paul van Hecke feels prepared. He believes the transfer has provided a significant confidence boost, allowing him to focus entirely on the World Cup journey ahead.
At 26 years old, this is his first major tournament. Once the international duty concludes, he will reunite with manager Roberto de Zerbi at Tottenham, having worked under him for two seasons at Brighton. He will also find familiar faces like Micky van de Ven, although the latter is currently linked with moves to Barcelona and Liverpool. Xavi Simons is also part of the setup but is currently sidelined for this tournament.
The transfer is also a major win for NAC Breda. The club where he developed negotiated a 7.5% sell-on clause in 2020. This move will net them approximately €4.5 million, including training compensation. For a player who grew up in Arnemuiden, looking out toward the North Sea, the journey to the top of English football is now complete.
