Kevin van Veen Makes Emotional Return to Football, Credits daughter for Support During Difficult Year
Eindhoven, Netherlands – October 4, 2025 – After nearly a year away from competitive play, forward Kevin van Veen returned to the pitch Friday night for FC eindhoven in their 3-1 defeat against MVV. The return marks a meaningful moment for the Eindhoven native, who openly discussed a challenging period in his personal life that led him to step away from the sport.
Van Veen’s absence followed a difficult stint with FC groningen, where he was brought in to bolster their attack in pursuit of promotion to the Eredivisie after previously playing for Motherwell in Scotland. However, he fell out of favor with then-manager Dick Lukkien, who shifted focus to developing younger players. Subsequent loan spells at two Scottish clubs failed to reignite his form.
Adding to his professional struggles, van Veen faced a legal battle with his former partner and limited access to his newborn daughter. These combined pressures led to a period of isolation and depression. ”I have been depressed in my bed for a long time and I did not go outside for a long time. In November I also decided to stop,” van Veen revealed after the match. “I personally am very happy to be here, and I think my family too, because everyone was worried.”
Van Veen emphasized the crucial role his daughter played in his recovery. “If I hadn’t had her, I don’t know if I would still be here now,” he stated. He expressed his joy at rejoining FC Eindhoven, his hometown club, adding, “Now here in an Eindhoven shirt, as an Eindhoven boy, is still breathable, I am happy and proud that I have not given up.”
While focused on regaining his form and scoring goals,van Veen acknowledged ongoing personal challenges. “Hopefully I can score again and stand on the field with a smile. I still have some things to process privately, hopefully that will be fine.”
His return to football represents a powerful story of resilience and the importance of personal support systems.
