Jordan Teze is well in his skin. The defender played himself into the PSV base and looks ahead to the final week of the season. In it, Teze refuses to throw in the towel prematurely. About belief until the final whistle, winning prizes, being called up for Orange and his future.
Faith
As a PSV player, Teze knows his classics. The defender has played at PSV since the F-boys and is keenly aware of the club's special championships in 2007 and 2016. "I hammer on that more often in the locker room," he refers to the chances PSV still has. "It may sound like a cliché, but it's not over until the final whistle blows. The 2007 and 2016 championships proved that. We are not giving up in advance. But all we can do is keep the pressure full on Ajax."
Long season
The season began for Teze and his teammates back in July of last year. The young defender played in three European tournaments this football season, won the KNVB Cup and Johan Cruijff Schaal, briefly wore the captain's armband and was allowed to report to the Dutch national team. "I went through a lot this season. Especially after the winter, events followed each other in rapid succession. If someone told me at the beginning of the season that I was allowed to experience all this, I would have looked surprised."
Proud
It is difficult for Teze to name what he is most proud of. "I hesitate between winning the cup and being selected for Orange. In the end, I didn't make minutes with the national team due to an injury, but the experience no one will ever take away from me. I won't easily forget the day of the cup final. We fought there as a team. Needless to say, we were highly motivated to take that prize. Partly due to the support of the fans who traveled en masse, it became an unforgettable day."
Tricky task
"Next Sunday we will play at De Kuip again. This time, of course, in a very different situation," Teze is aware. "It's never easy to take on Feyenoord. Let alone when they are also backed by the fanatical supporters. It's up to us to give the home crowd no reason to cheer. That will be a difficult task. Feyenoord are playing good football this season. They have a good coach and always lead the way. But I am convinced we will win against Feyenoord next Sunday."
Trainer
Teze has been developing himself stormily under Schmidt's wing for the past few seasons. "He is very important to me. Schmidt put me in the starting lineup some time ago. He lets me play often and gives me confidence. I'm learning a lot, both personally and soccer-wise. This coach made me realize that it is not bad to make a mistake once in a while, as long as the intention is good. I'm glad I was able to play under him."
Future
The word "could" is significant. "My future lies with PSV," Teze winks ahead of next season. "I feel no need to leave this summer at this club. I want to take the next steps in my development. I hope to be a constant player under Ruud van Nistelrooij. I am curious to see how the cooperation will go. I think we can achieve something beautiful as a club and hope to play an important role in that. If that succeeds, the Dutch national team will come around the corner again. But first I want to give this season a fitting end."
