AZ Struggles Continue Following Maarten Martens’ Departure

AZ’s situation does not appear to have improved significantly following the departure of Maarten Martens, as evidenced by their recent 1-3 loss to NEC.

Coach Leeroy Echteld took responsibility for the team’s performance, specifically regarding the choice to utilize Alexandre Penetra as a makeshift right-back. In an interview with ESPN, he stated, “I made that decision with the coaching staff, and we were fully behind it. It was evident today that he is not a natural defender. It was essentially a stopgap measure.”

Echteld also addressed the potential inclusion of Elijah Dijkstra, remarking, “Elijah is a talented player and a good back, but he’s still struggling to manage a full schedule of matches. Additionally, Seiya Maikuma was not fully match fit, having just returned from injury.”