As the Women's Euros 2025 continues, all eyes have been on the Netherlands, a team consistently among the contenders and fighting for a knockout spot within a devilishly tough Group D.
Among their exciting roster, Esmee Brugts, a remarkably versatile player for Spanish giants FC Barcelona, is a player making a significant impact.
At just 21 years old, Brugts has already proven her ability to shine on the biggest stages, and her unique blend of skills makes her a compelling player to watch this summer.
Esmee Brugts: A Rapid Rise to the Top
Esmee Brugts' footballing journey has been a testament to her exceptional talent and adaptability. She began her senior career with PSV, where she quickly established herself as a key player in the Eredivisie.
Her standout performances, including being named Eredivisie Talent of the Year in 2022/23, caught the attention of European heavyweights. In August 2023, she made a significant move to FC Barcelona, one of the strongest clubs in women's football, where she has continued to impress, contributing to their domestic and European successes.
Brugts' playing style is defined by her tireless runs, technical quality, and remarkable versatility. While primarily operating on the left wing for the Netherlands, she has demonstrated the ability to play effectively across various positions, including as a midfielder, a full-back on both sides, and even as a number nine.
She is known for her composure on the ball, her ability to operate in tight spaces, and her powerful shots. Her high work rate means she constantly provides width, energy, and creativity, making her a dual threat in both attack and defence.
Esmee Brugts: Why Should We Remember Her Name?
Many tipped Esmee Brugts for a starring performance for the Dutch at Euro 2025, and it's clear why she's attracting such considerable attention:
- Exceptional versatility: Brugts' ability to play multiple roles across the pitch is a huge asset for the Netherlands. Whether she's deployed as a left-sided midfielder, a winger, or even a full-back, she adapts seamlessly, providing tactical flexibility and ensuring she's always a valuable option for coach Andries Jonker. This adaptability makes her unpredictable for opponents.
- Technical prowess and composure: She possesses excellent footwork and ball control, allowing her to navigate past defenders with ease. Her composure, especially in high-pressure situations, ensures she makes intelligent decisions and maintains possession, even in tight areas. This technical quality is a hallmark of her game.
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- Big game experience: Having played for PSV and now Barcelona in the Champions League, and having featured prominently for the Netherlands at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup where she scored two goals, Brugts is no stranger to the biggest stages. This experience will be invaluable in the high-stakes environment of the Euros.
- Mental resilience and drive: Brugts has openly spoken about her mental resilience and her ability to view nerves as a sign that "something great is about to happen." This positive mindset, combined with her dedication to pushing herself to the next level, indicates a player who thrives under pressure and is determined to succeed.
Esmee Brugts: Euro 2025 Impact and Future Prospects
For the Netherlands, Esmee Brugts is a crucial and exciting component of their squad. Her versatility means she can be utilised in various tactical setups, providing both defensive solidity and attacking flair. Whether starting or coming off the bench, her ability to change the game with her energy, dribbling, and goal threat have been paramount to the Netherlands' successes at Euro 2025. She has proved herself to be one of the Netherlands’ most impactful and dynamic players and got on the scoresheet in their opening 3-0 win over Wales.
Long-term, Esmee Brugts' career has huge potential. Being an integral part of FC Barcelona's dominant squad provides her with an ideal environment for continued growth and exposure to the highest level of club football.
With her unique blend of skills, mental fortitude, and continuous development, she has all the attributes to become a key fixture for the Netherlands national team and one of the leading versatile players in women's football for many years to come.