Marco van Basten’s Cautionary Advice for AZ Star Kees Smit

AZ, represented by super agent Jorge Mendes, is in the process of orchestrating a significant transfer for Kees Smit. However, former top footballer Marco van Basten considers this move to be a misguided decision, particularly for the player himself.

Van Basten recommends that Smit should first solidify his position in the Dutch league, suggesting, “He should spend three more years at AZ, Ajax, PSV, or Feyenoord before looking to advance to a top foreign club. If he decides to move abroad, it is crucial to be settled, perhaps with a partner, so they can face the transition together. Otherwise, if he finds himself playing with the reserves, he might experience profound loneliness, which is detrimental.”

Expressing his concerns on Ziggo Sport’s Rondo, Van Basten stated, “I find it wasteful to rush Smit into a European career at this stage.”

Previously, Hugo Borst also shared his thoughts, saying, “While it’s great for Technical Director Max Huiberts to conclude with a megatransfer, it would be wiser for Smit to remain in the Eredivisie for at least another year and a half. He shouldn’t leave this summer. There are too many egos and conflicting interests involved in making a significant profit from this young talent. As Huiberts is departing, he undoubtedly wants to set records with a player sold for sixty million euros. However, I find it unwise to push Smit into a European league prematurely. What would happen is that he would be sold to Manchester City or Real Madrid, but for such a sum, they would scrutinize his accomplishments in the Netherlands. Currently, he has achieved very little. He has made some impressive passes and certainly shows potential, but he has yet to prove himself at a higher level.”