An 18-year-old defender who prefers to lead the build-up, is strong in the duels and cheers his team on when needed. That is Wessel Kuhn in a nutshell. The young defender made his debut for the main squad in the UEFA Champions League match against Red Star Belgrade, and with success: Luuk de Jong was very enthusiastic about Wessel's performance afterwards.
"Wessel comes in and really runs his ass off. He goes for every ball and popped up behind me himself to head another ball in. I love that," Luuk said after the 3-2 victory in Serbia.
Wessel's story begins at a young age at MULO in Helmond, where he was picked up by PSV as a seven-year-old. "I played there from the age of three, but when I came here I soon noticed that just being able to play football well is not enough," he says. "At PSV, an awful lot is asked of you, but I grew up here and don't know any better. This is my club."
More than just defending
Although Wessel is best known for his defensive skills, he has more to offer than just solid intervention. "I like to play in from the back and lead the build-up," he explains. "But you can also recognize me by my dueling strength." His first steps in professional football impress, but his eagerness to learn remains his greatest strength. "I now play against older and smarter strikers and am constantly learning. Those are new challenges for me, but precisely because of that I develop myself."
"Ever since I kicked a ball, I have been for PSV. I come from a PSV family and want nothing more than to succeed here."
A Helmond highlight
Wessel's finest moment apart from his UCL debut? Without a doubt his first goal in professional football. "That was precisely in the stadium of Helmond Sport, where I come from. And it was also a beautiful goal. That was really a special moment. A year before that I made my debut for Young PSV, that also remains a highlight."
Flamingo as an example
On the pitch, Wessel watches defenders from the main squad closely. He learns the most from Ryan Flamingo, in part because he sees a clear comparison in him. "We have the same type of game. When I train with PSV 1, I always ask for tips, and he likes to help me. Those are valuable lessons."
Eye on the future
This season Wessel wants to remain a regular for Young PSV, but his ambitions reach further. "I'm here to eventually make the step up to the main squad. When that happens doesn't matter to me yet. If it may be, it will come at the right time." With ultimate goals, such as becoming champion, the junior international of Orange has a clear path in mind. "Ever since I kicked a ball, I have been for PSV. I come from a PSV family and want nothing more than to succeed here."
