Finish position: 12th
Overview:
Midway through the season, it looked like Sparta Rotterdam would be fighting a battle to remain in the Eredivisie. Under Jeroen Rijsdijk the side only won two of their opening 17 games, which led to the Croatian losing his job and being replaced by Maurice Steijn. The former Ajax man was able to steer the side to safety with seven wins from 24 games. However, it is their lowest finish for three seasons and was a disappointing campaign. However, their end to the season may give fans some confidence that they can return to fighting for a play off spot next year.
Player of the Season: Nick Olij
Despite their struggles this season, the side actually had a decent defensive record with just 43 goals conceded in 34 games. This was in part thanks to the performances of Nick Olij. The 29-year-old kept six clean sheets in 34 games and saved one penalty. His performances earned him international recognition with a call up to the provisional Oranje squad.
Young Player of the Season: Kristian Hylnsson
21-year-old Icelandic midfielder Hlynsson joined on loan from Ajax midway through the campaign and had a big imapct. In 18 matches for the side he grabbed three goals and three assists. Despite a strong 2023/2024 campaign for Ajax he struggled to get game time under Francesco Farioli. The move to Sparta certainly helped him by giving him that chance of first team football.
Summer needs:
Another striker in anticipation that Tobias Lauritsen is likely to leave. The side should also look to convert some of the loan players into permanent signings, as the likes of Hylnsson, Carel Eiting and Gjivai Zechiel had a big impact after making their moves in the winter window.
Grade: C
GBeNeFN | Samuel Fabre
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