Giovanni van Bronckhorst has made a positive first impression at Feyenoord during his opening weeks as head coach, according to midfielder Luciano Valente. The transition has been smooth across the squad, with players responding well to the new tactical approach and intensity being implemented at the Dutch club.
The appointment drew attention due to Shaqueel van Persie being the son of the previous coach, Robin van Persie, who departed before Van Bronckhorst's arrival. Many observers questioned how the younger van Persie would handle such a significant change in his immediate environment. Valente addressed this directly in an interview with ESPN, noting that the 21-year-old has responded maturely to the circumstances.
Handling Transition With Maturity
"Shaqueel is dealing with it very well, you can see that in him too," Valente explained. "He also says: ultimately, I'm just a footballer. In football, it simply happens that a coach leaves from time to time." The midfielder highlighted that while the situation carries added weight due to family connections, van Persie has approached it as a professional rather than allowing personal dynamics to disrupt team cohesion. "We haven't even had to help him in that respect," Valente added, suggesting the transition required minimal intervention from teammates or coaching staff.
Valente himself has navigated the coaching change without friction. Despite his established relationship with van Persie, he has quickly developed rapport with Van Bronckhorst. "I will always be honest about it. My bond with Robin van Persie is good and now I have that with Gio as well," Valente said. The midfielder emphasized that professional football demands this flexibility, noting that maintaining team unity requires open communication and mutual respect between players and coaching staff.
High Standards and Championship Ambitions
Beyond personnel adjustments, Valente expressed enthusiasm about the direction Van Bronckhorst is taking the team. "I really feel a positive energy. I'm very positive about how we are doing as a team. The training sessions are of a high standard and the intensity is extremely high," he stated. The increased demands in training have reportedly made the experience more enjoyable for squad members while building a foundation for competitive success.
The midfielder identified maintaining atmosphere and cohesion as crucial to Eredivisie success. "You train almost all week and at the weekend there is often a match. You have to keep the atmosphere good with each other in training and off the pitch. Then it can be a very good season," Valente noted. With Van Bronckhorst implementing his preferred tactical system and the squad responding positively, Feyenoord appears positioned to mount a serious championship challenge this season.
