Willem van Hanegem Discusses Controversy Between Etienne Vaessen and Danny Buijs

omidbasir- In a recent episode of the podcast with Wessel Penning on Voetbalprimeur, Willem van Hanegem provided extensive commentary on the dispute between FC Groningen goalkeeper Etienne Vaessen and Fortuna Sittard coach Danny Buijs. This conflict arose following Fortuna’s 2-1 victory at Euroborg, where Vaessen criticized Buijs’s approach, labeling it as ‘anti-football.’

Vaessen expressed his frustration, stating, “This is the anti-football of Buijs. I find it bothersome,” and even suggested he would want his contract torn up if he had to play under Buijs. In response, Van Hanegem remarked, “Why shouldn’t he play that way? You can call Buijs eccentric and demanding, but he insists: I have certain players, and this is how we will play.” He further noted that Fortuna is capable of playing attractive football but believes that if it is unnecessary, they should refrain from doing so.

Danny Buijs responded to the criticism by downplaying its significance. He noted, “Vaessen played for RKC Waalwijk two years ago, who were relegated. He made a transfer, but there are still some players in the KKD. Perhaps some people lost their jobs due to relegation. In the Eredivisie, relegation is a reality, and this is top-level sports. You want to avoid relegation, and top clubs aim to win championships. You play for results.”

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