Jizz Hornkamp Set to Join AZ: Insights from Gertjan Verbeek

Jizz Hornkamp is poised to sign with AZ Alkmaar. The top scorer from Heracles Almelo is leaving the 17th-placed team in the Eredivisie for a new opportunity in Alkmaar. SoccerNews spoke with Gertjan Verbeek, a former coach of both AZ and Heracles Almelo, about Hornkamp’s development and future prospects.

In an interview with SoccerNews, Verbeek expressed his belief that Hornkamp is a logical addition to the AZ lineup. “I think Hornkamp fits very well with AZ’s style of play, and I expect him to score a significant number of goals there,” he stated. During the first half of the season at Heracles Almelo, the 27-year-old forward managed to net eleven goals.

Verbeek drew comparisons between Hornkamp and renowned striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, praising Hornkamp’s style. “He is a very aggressive forward with a keen sense of movement in the penalty area. Furthermore, Jizz puts in a tremendous amount of effort, possesses a great mentality, and has remarkable stamina. Not to mention, he has a natural instinct for goal scoring,” Verbeek noted. “He finds it easy to score. At Heracles, a team that has struggled and created few opportunities, he still managed to score eleven times, which is impressive.”

Hornkamp can certainly be considered a late bloomer in the Eredivisie. Verbeek commended the forward’s perseverance and growth over the past few years. “At Heerenveen, he quickly found himself sidelined. They even attempted to convert him into a right-back,” the former coach revealed. “At FC Den Bosch, he performed well, which led to a move to Willem II, and from there to Heracles. Now, he is ready for his next step. He has demonstrated the ability to adapt at every level.”

Verbeek believes that AZ will not be the final destination for Hornkamp. “For a striker, playing for AZ is ideal, as you will receive numerous chances during matches. Scouts are aware that AZ has interesting players, and they visit regularly to observe. If he acclimates successfully again, he is likely to score a lot of goals, which could lead to a transfer abroad. He is undoubtedly a forward with potential.”