Kees Smit

Executive Summary

Kees Smit, born on 20 January 2006, lines up as an attacking midfielder for AZ Alkmaar and wears the number 10 shirt. His contract runs until 30 June 2030. The 185 cm right‑footer has become the creative hub of a side that lifted the KNVB Cup and the Johan Cruijff Schaal before opening the Eredivisie campaign with four straight victories.

Playing Style and Key Attributes

Smit gravitates to the pockets just outside the penalty area, constantly scanning for a final pass or a late run into the box. His vision and first touch turn tight situations into scoring chances, while his height gives him an aerial presence unusual for a classic number 10. He presses intelligently rather than relentlessly, and his right foot delivers both whipped crosses and measured through‑balls. The next step is adding more defensive discipline and sharpening decision‑making when the tempo drops.

Career and Recent Context

He entered AZ’s academy from De Foresters in 2015 and climbed through every youth tier — U17 in 2021, U18 a year later, U21 in 2023 — before earning a first‑team promotion in 2024. A starring role in the 2023 UEFA Youth League triumph, where AZ eliminated Real Madrid, marked his breakthrough. Under Leeroy Echteld, who took permanent charge in April, Smit has started every league match this season, helping the team concede only three goals while netting thirteen.

Transfers and Outlook

Interest from Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atlético Madrid has been public for several windows; Atlético lodged a formal bid in the last winter window, but AZ rejected it. Smit himself admitted he expected a move last summer yet remained content, citing unfinished development at Alkmaar. National‑team coach Xavi Hernández is tracking his progress, so a big‑club transfer remains plausible, but for now the player’s focus stays on extending his influence in a title‑chasing side.