Dutch 'warriors' challenge V.League

From Serie A to V.League, Mitchell Dijks considers the decision to join Nam Dinh FC not only a turning point in his career but also a personal challenge.

Mitchell Dijks has just joined Nam Dinh FC.

In his first interview with Tri Thức - Znews , former Bologna defender Mitchell Dijks - who was introduced to the V.League by former center-back Nguyen Van Bakel - shared about his difficult childhood, the pressures of football, and his aspiration to make history at Thien Truong Stadium.

A major turning point

- You've faced many top strikers throughout your career. Who was the toughest opponent?

- I've faced Cristiano Ronaldo, Erling Haaland, Zlatan Ibrahimovic… but the player who gave me the most trouble was Romelu Lukaku, back when he played for Inter Milan. Lukaku's strength and ability to run down the pitch were truly impressive.

- Moving from Europe to Vietnam was a major turning point. How do you view this decision?

- Yes, this is a huge step. I had a rather difficult childhood, I lost contact with my father, I carried a lot of trauma and had to go through a long process to heal and overcome it. For me, coming to Vietnam is not just about football or a beautiful country, but also a challenge for my own personal growth and development. I have faith in myself and always want to challenge myself.

- How do the pressures and expectations here compare to those in Europe?

- Pressure exists everywhere, and so do the fans. Nam Dinh has consistently been in contention for the championship title for the past two years, so naturally, the fans have high expectations. But I believe pressure is necessary – it forces you to push your limits and play better.

- What was your first impression when you arrived in Nam Dinh?

- It's incredibly hot (laughs). But the people here are wonderful: friendly, warm, grateful, and full of pride in their country. The only downside is the traffic… it's many times busier than in the Netherlands (laughs).

Mitchell Dijks previously played for Ajax, Bologna, and other clubs.

- Have you ever experienced the electrifying football atmosphere like in Vietnam?

- I used to play for Ajax, I participated in matches like Ajax vs. Feyenoord, or in Italy, Bologna vs. Fiorentina. There was always tension and passion. I liked that, and I'm very happy to see that Vietnamese fans are just as passionate.

What about Vietnamese cuisine ?

- I've tried it and loved it. The first time I went with my Vietnamese representative, he was so happy to see me enjoying the meal. I even ordered more dishes and tipped the taxi driver. He then took me to a typical Vietnamese restaurant - which made me happy and excited immediately.

- Who is the person you feel most comfortable with in the locker room?

Mahmoud is a very friendly person. I get along well with everyone, but it takes time to build deeper connections; I've only been here for about a week.

- Do you think you can help the young players in Nam Dinh?

- I have a lot of experience and I'm always willing to share it. The only issue is the language barrier. But young players are always eager to learn, and I hope I can help them develop further.

Do you know Rafaelson - the big star of Nam Dinh?

I'm very sorry, I've never heard of him before.

"I don't care about the names of other clubs."

Have you watched any matches in the V.League? And what are your impressions?

- Yes, I watched two matches - one 2-1 win and one 1-2 loss. The level was pretty good, but I found the weather to be the biggest challenge. The game here has more physical contact and more long balls compared to the Netherlands. In Europe, especially in the Netherlands, we control the ball more.

- Many other V.League clubs have also brought in big-name strikers. Do you think that will be a challenge for you?

- Honestly, I don't care about the names of other clubs. If they have big stars, even better, because then I'll just put them "in my pocket" (laughs).

The Nam Dinh left-back is very confident about his new adventure.

- How do you want to be remembered by the Nam Dinh fans?

- As a Dutch warrior, I want them to see the ferocity in every tackle I make, and remember me as someone who is both a warrior, a leader, and a teacher.

- What message would you like to send to the fans before your debut match at Thien Truong Stadium?

- I'm very happy to be here. I will give it my all, play my best, and want to make history - becoming the first Dutch player for Nam Dinh. I need time to regain my fitness and get used to the climate, but once I adapt, I will become a "machine".

- If you look back on this period of time 10 years from now, what message would you send to yourself?

- I would say: 'Mitch, you did the right thing. I'm so proud of you. You walked this path alone, faced the challenge alone, and that was the right decision. A huge step forward, not only in football but in your personal journey.'

Source: https://znews.vn/chien-binh-ha-lan-thach-thuc-vleague-post1579982.html