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Alfred Schreuder outlines the drive of new NEC player Tadic: 'I had to have him
Teams 1 August 2026

Alfred Schreuder outlines the drive of new NEC player Tadic: 'I had to have him

Alfred Schreuder shares an anecdote about Dusan Tadic from their Twente period and emphasizes the winning mentality of NEC's new acquisition. One week after returning from injury, Tadic immediately stole the show against Feyenoord.

Alfred Schreuder outlines the drive of new NEC player Tadic: 'I had to have him

According to Vi.

Background

Dusan Tadic, former FC Twente and Ajax player, has further enriched his career in the Eredivisie with his recent move to NEC. His previous collaboration with Alfred Schreuder has led to a strong bond, which can contribute to a smooth integration into the team. Tadic's experience and winning mentality are of great importance for NEC, which wants to distinguish itself in a competitive Eredivisie.

Why this matters

Dusan Tadic, now an asset to NEC, has a proven track record in the Eredivisie, where his winning mentality and drive set him apart. Alfred Schreuder's anecdote highlights not only Tadic's determination, but also the challenges coaches sometimes face when managing such ambitious players. This could be crucial for NEC, which hopes to utilize its experience and talent in the competition.

Key points

  • Alfred Schreuder outlines the drive of new NEC player Tadic: 'I had to have him.
  • Alfred Schreuder shares an anecdote about Dusan Tadic from their Twente period and emphasizes the winning mentality of NEC's new acquisition.
  • Alfred Schreuder knows everything about Tadic's drive: 'Had to protect him'.

Alfred Schreuder can excellently tell his brother Dick about Dusan Tadic, the new addition to NEC. The former coach of FC Twente and Ajax, among others, worked with the Serbian attacker in Enschede and later in Amsterdam and knows how exceptional his drive is. According to Schreuder, Tadic is a pure winner who always wants to play - sometimes so much that a trainer has to slow him down.

In a look back on their joint period at FC Twente (2013), Schreuder says that Tadic suffered a knee injury during the preparation. The medical staff at the time estimated a recovery period of at least six weeks. Tadic left for Serbia to recuperate and train, and kept his trainers informed daily. According to Schreuder, he trained there three times a day, seven days a week, and faithfully sent video footage of his progress. After just three weeks, Tadic reported that he felt fit and was ready to play in the competition straight away.

Schreuder and the medical staff did not want to take any risks so close to the start of the competition. That is why the difficult message followed: Tadic would not immediately start in the starting line-up. That was difficult for the hungry attacker; he was visibly disappointed and even angry, says Schreuder. “I had to protect him,” is his explanation: sometimes caution is necessary, even with a player who shows so much drive that he wants to grab every minute.

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A week later, Tadic was given his starting place at Feyenoord. The sequel speaks volumes about his mentality and class: Twente won 1-4 and Tadic was the star with two goals and two assists. It is exactly the type of reaction that Schreuder characterizes as the core of Tadic's top athlete mentality: converting setbacks into performance, and using criticism or disappointment as fuel.

That oneattitude is exactly what NEC hopes to leverage with the arrival of Tadic. With the experienced left foot, the Nijmegen team not only gains creativity and efficiency, but also an exemplary figure in the dressing room. Schreuder knows him as a professional who leaves nothing to chance, both in training and in competition preparation. That is worth gold for a selection that wants to grow in the Eredivisie.

The fact that Alfred Schreuder provides this insight makes the anecdote extra valuable: he worked with Tadic at Twente and later again at Ajax, and was therefore closely involved in several of the Serbian's peak moments. His story underlines why the attacker has built a reputation in the Netherlands as a leader, sharp playmaker and man of decisive moments. NEC can prepare for a player who, when fit, can still make a difference - and who, as always, will push himself to the limit.

What's happening now

With Tadic in the ranks, NEC can count on his experience and leadership in the Eredivisie. He is expected to quickly take on a key role in the team, especially after his impressive return against Feyenoord. Fans and analysts will closely monitor how Tadic adapts to his new environment and what impact he will have on NEC's performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to Dusan Tadic?

Dusan Tadic is the new signing of NEC and has a strong drive to play, which, according to his trainer Alfred Schreuder, sometimes needs to be slowed down.

Who confirmed the information about Tadic?

Alfred Schreuder, the NEC trainer, has confirmed the information about Dusan Tadic.

Why is this relevant now?

This is relevant because Dusan Tadic was recently signed by NEC and his mentality and drive as a player are discussed.

What changes are there in Tadic's role?

Tadic had to be protected at the beginning of the season and did not immediately start, but was later given his starting place.

What does Schreuder say about Tadic's mentality?

Schreuder describes Tadic as a pure winner who always wants to play and that his drive sometimes has to be reduced to prevent injuries.

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