Willy van de Kerkhof slams Weghorst as he backs Twente’s surprise

Willy van de Kerkhof blasted Wout Weghorst as only a first‑division‑level striker while simultaneously insisting that FC Twente can still surprise in the Eredivisie despite a sluggish start, a contrast he laid out on the Willy and René PSV Podcast broadcast from Omroep Brabant.

Kerkhof said Weghorst “even a ball he still cannot receive”, emphasizing his view that the striker is merely first‑division material. He delivered the line in Dutch, saying “Zelfs een bal kan hij nog niet ontvangen”.

Kerkhof made the remark while analysing the outlook for FC Twente in the Eredivisie, noting that the club’s recent form has been uneven but that the season is far from decided.

Despite the harsh words about the striker, the former Oranje‑international remained optimistic about Twente, saying the club has a good squad and could surprise opponents this season even after a slow start.

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He also criticised technical director Erik ten Hag for signing what he called “the wrong striker”, clearly referring to Weghorst and suggesting the recruitment decision has backfired.

Kerkhof added, “Wegwezen”, and continued, “Is it the level of FC Twente? No, no, absolutely not.” He asked, “Hebben we hem gezien in die twee Europese wedstrijden van Twente?” before concluding that “Zelfs een bal kan hij nog niet ontvangen”.

Weghorst, 33, was under contract at Ajax from mid‑2024 until the summer before joining FC Twente on a two‑season deal, linking the criticism directly to the club’s newest signing.

In the two‑legged European tie against Ferencváros, which the Tukkers lost, Weghorst featured in both matches and scored in the return leg, although his goal did not alter the aggregate outcome.

Twente’s next match is Thursday evening against Slovak side DAC 1904, offering a fresh opportunity to test Weghorst’s abilities and to see whether Kerkhof’s warning or his optimism will prove more accurate.