Hadj Moussa revival delights Feyenoord boss after failed transfer

Anis Hadj Moussa’s return to form has pleased Feyenoord manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst after the Algeria winger’s proposed transfer fell through and he missed the game against NEC.

The right winger made an immediate impact against FC Utrecht, scoring twice as Feyenoord secured a convincing victory at De Kuip. Hadj Moussa scored the opening goal and later added the third, playing a central role in a result that continued the Rotterdam club’s strong recent run.

Van Bronckhorst said Feyenoord’s start had given them control of the match before half-time.

“Given the way we started the match, and the pace and intensity imposed by the team, the game was virtually over after half an hour,” the Feyenoord manager said.

The coach acknowledged that his side still had to maintain its performance after building a commanding advantage.

“You then have to hold firm. It is entirely to the team’s credit that it never eased off the pressure and continued to score goals,” he added.

Hadj Moussa’s contribution was particularly significant. His two goals helped Feyenoord produce another emphatic attacking display and marked a sharp response after the uncertainty surrounding his failed move and his absence against NEC.

Van Bronckhorst praised the player’s attitude and the speed with which he had recovered his momentum.

“It is very impressive to see how he has managed to turn the situation around. He is a real football enthusiast. He wants to be on the pitch and enjoy playing,” said Van Bronckhorst.

“That has been evident for the team in recent weeks, and he has shown his value in that respect. We all benefit from the fact that he has managed to reverse the trend so quickly.”

Feyenoord have scored 12 goals in their past two Eredivisie matches, underlining the scale of their attacking improvement. However, the international break arrives at a time when the Rotterdam side are in strong rhythm, meaning the pause could potentially interrupt their momentum.

Van Bronckhorst said the break would instead provide an opportunity to recover and address areas that still needed work before the team’s next challenge against AZ.

“We will take a short breather. Then we will get back to work at full intensity and focus on all the areas that need improving,” he said.

“We have to reach this level again against AZ. All our efforts in the coming weeks are focused on that objective.”

The manager’s comments came after a win in which Feyenoord combined a fast start with sustained pressure, while Hadj Moussa’s brace provided further evidence of his importance to the team following his difficult period.