Ramon Hendriks, who moved to VfB from Rotterdam in summer 2024, speaks in an interview about the upcoming match against his former club, Feyenoord’s playing style and his development in Stuttgart.
On Thursday evening, VfB will take on Feyenoord in the UEFA Europa League. What are your thoughts ahead of the game?
Ramon: “It’s a very special game for me, I was really pleased when the draw was made. I joined Feyenoord as a youth player. I grew up there to a certain extent, and I made my debut in the Dutch top flight for them. Having said that, a lot of the players I was there with, and am still in touch with, have moved to other clubs now.”
How would you describe Feyenoord’s playing style?
Ramon:“They’re a team who like to keep the ball moving, who like to be proactive and who try to find creative solutions. That’s part of Feyenoord’s DNA. It aligns a bit with the philosophy we have here at VfB too. In my opinion, it’ll be a match between two teams who like to play football and create chances.”
You’re rated doubtful for the game due to a muscular issue. What’s the latest?
Ramon: “On the whole, I feel good. We’ll have to see how things are on the day of the game itself and how it feels under a bit of strain. It’s hard to give an exact prognosis today.”
Both clubs are currently on three points in the league phase. Does that mean there’s already a certain amount of pressure to win?
Ramon: “It might not be a final or a knockout tie but there’s still a lot riding on it. We’ve lost our last two games in Europe, so that’s something we want to put right.”
You’ve enjoyed increasing game time in defence for VfB. How do you view your development in recent months?
Ramon: “I’m very happy with my development. I’ve been playing regularly this season and have been able to contribute my qualities to the team. That feels good and shows me that my hard work is paying off more and more. I needed my first season in Stuttgart to settle in: a new club, a different league, higher intensity. Now everything is coming together better and better. I’m making progress and I know what I need to continue working on to become an even better player.”
