Struggling Eredivisie side NAC Breda announced today the immediate signing of veteran defender Denis Odoi, a move aimed at shoring up a defense that has conceded in every match this season. The 37-year-old Belgian international joins NAC Breda as a free agent after his contract with Royal antwerp expired, bringing over 500 professional appearances to the club’s back line. Manager Carl Hoefkens, who previously coached Odoi at Club Brugge, was instrumental in the deal as NAC breda looks to climb out of 16th place in the Dutch top flight.
NAC Breda has added veteran defender Denis Odoi to its roster as the Dutch Eredivisie side looks to bolster its squad ahead of the winter transfer window.
Denis Odoi was a free agent after his contract with Antwerp expired this past summer. NAC Breda officials were impressed by his extensive experience – over 300 appearances in Belgium, 200 in England, and nearly 30 in European competition – and his professional approach to the game.
𝑫𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒔 𝑶𝒅𝒐𝒊 = 💛🖤 #NACpraat pic.twitter.com/whTErRQYWk
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Odoi was previously in talks with Courtrai, where he had a familiar relationship with manager Michiel Jonckheere and spent several weeks training with the team. However, a contract agreement with the club’s leadership ultimately failed to materialize.
First Taste of the Eredivisie
NAC Breda manager Carl Hoefkens played a key role in bringing Odoi to the club, having previously worked with him at Club Brugge. The team is currently dealing with defensive issues, having conceded in every match this season and facing a number of injuries in the back line.
“In addition to the current wave of injuries in defense, we are already preparing for the winter transfer window with this new addition,” explained Sporting Director Peter Maas in the official club statement. “His commitment and passion are still very strong. We are strengthening the squad with a combative player in the fight to stay in the Eredivisie.”
NAC Breda currently sits 16th in the Dutch league table, having won only one of their last seven matches. Denis Odoi, who will turn 38 in May, will be looking to rediscover his form and help steer the team clear of the relegation zone. The addition of a player with Odoi’s pedigree could prove vital as NAC Breda battles to maintain its top-flight status.
