Mario Been Praises Feyenoord’s Progress But Warns of Squad Depth Risks
Mario Been Evaluates Feyenoord Squad Depth and Form
Former Feyenoord coach Mario Been expressed enthusiasm for the current development and fitness levels of Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s squad, while raising concerns regarding squad depth if key injuries occur, fr12.nl reported. Speaking in the Dick Voormekaar Podcast, Been noted the high movement and collective work ethic within the team, pointing out that players are putting in significant physical effort for one another.
Been highlighted physical standouts such as Givairo Read, comparing the defender’s intensive running capacity during matches to the workload he experienced over half a season during his own playing career. Been also addressed his changing perspective on striker Nacho Ferri, describing him as a persistent handful for opponents who offers a reliable outlet for aerial balls and high speed. The analyst also praised Luciano Valente for his influential role on the pitch.
Dense Schedule Tests Player Availability
Despite the positive run of form, Been questioned whether sufficient replacements are available should key personnel suffer injuries, particularly noting the current absence of players like Jakub Moder and Jordan Bos.
That dense schedule forms part of a packed 29-day period featuring eight matches across the Eredivisie, the UEFA Champions League, and the KNVB Beker, according to fr-fans.nl. Technical director Dévy Rigaux noted that the club factored the physical load and player availability into its preparations following injury issues in previous seasons. Meanwhile, the club’s medical staff continues to manage the recovery of several players awaiting their first minutes of the season, including Thomas Beelen, Jordan Bos, Gijs Smal, Jakub Moder, and Bart Nieuwkoop, as reported by fr-fans.nl.
Been Warns Against Underestimating European Opposition
Looking past immediate domestic duties, Been warned against underestimating upcoming European opposition, specifically pointing to an attacking side featuring former Dutch league top scorer Anastasios Douvikas, as covered by soccernews.nl. When pressed on the upcoming Eredivisie fixture against PSV scheduled for October 25, 2026, Been declined to look too far ahead, emphasizing that dropped points elsewhere negate the value of a single marquee victory.
Feyenoord’s upcoming calendar includes a Champions League meeting with Como 1907, followed by a league match against Telstar on October 17, 2026, and a European fixture against Real Betis on October 21, 2026, ahead of the PSV clash, per 1908.nl. Further ahead, the club will enter the KNVB Beker in the second ronde on December 15 or 16, 2026, with exact opponent details and kickoff times remaining unconfirmed by tournament organizers.
Disclaimer: The insights provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.