Adama Nagalo’s Struggles Amidst PSV’s Victory

The 21-year-old Burkinabé defender, signed from FC Nordsjælland, joined PSV this summer with high expectations. He was seen as a key addition to strengthen the back line and compete with Armel Bella-Kotchap and André Ramalho for a starting role.
However, Nagalo’s debut has yet to materialize. He has been named in the matchday squad several times but remains unused, even in matches where PSV held comfortable leads.

Coach Peter Bosz, when asked about Nagalo’s absence, offered a brief response:

“Adama is a talented player, but we are managing his integration carefully. The competition in defense is fierce, and he still needs to adapt to our tactical demands.”

Sources close to the club suggest that Bosz’s preference for Watanabe and Ahmedhodzic in central defense, combined with PSV’s strong form, has limited opportunities for rotation.

Growing Questions Around the Transfer

Nagalo’s situation has fueled discussion among fans and analysts. Some argue that PSV’s €7 million investment has yet to be justified, while others believe patience is required for a player adjusting from the Danish Superliga to the intensity of Dutch football.

Former PSV defender Timothy Derijck commented during ESPN’s post-match analysis:

“It’s hard for a young center-back to break into a team that’s winning every week. But if he’s not even getting minutes at 5–1 up, that’s concerning. At some point, the club needs to see what they’ve actually bought.”

With his contract running until 2029, Nagalo remains a long-term investment. Yet his visible frustration — symbolized by those solitary post-match sprints — suggests that patience may be wearing thin.