Centre-BackNetherlands18 years oldPlays for FC Twente Enschede
Photo: BasFCT, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons; resized and cropped.
Ruud Nijstad is a centre-back for FC Twente Enschede. Born on 17 January 2008, the defender is currently establishing himself in the Eredivisie. He became a regular in the first team during the 2025/26 season.
Standing at 195 cm, Nijstad provides a towering presence in the backline. He is left-footed. This offers a useful dimension from the defense. While his debut showed some early nerves, he has shown composure as matches progressed. He has already contributed a goal in the current campaign. His physical profile helps aerial duels.
Nijstad grew up in Vriezenveen with VV DETO Twenterand before joining the academy in 2019. He moved through the youth ranks quickly, reaching the U18 and U19 levels in early 2024. Promotion to the senior squad followed in January 2025. His professional debut came on 5 October 2025 against Heracles Almelo. He replaced Robin Propper after just eight minutes. That performance earned him the man of the match award and solidified his spot.
High-profile clubs have been tracking his progress. In 2024, Juventus, PSV, AFC Ajax, and various German sides showed interest. Recent reports now link Barcelona, Bayern, and Chelsea to the Dutch defender. He remains with Twente until his contract expires on 30 June 2029.
Manchester United are monitoring FC Twente centre-back Ruud Nijstad as a potential replacement for Lisandro Martínez. His contract at Twente runs to June 2029.
Sunderland are among several Premier League clubs tracking Ruud Nijstad, per TEAMtalk. The centre‑back’s contract at FC Twente runs to June 2029, and the Dutch side will not sell in January.
Everton are among several Premier League clubs monitoring FC Twente centre‑back Ruud Nijstad, whose contract runs to June 2029. TEAMtalk reported on 22 Oct that Everton and other clubs have checked on Nijstad this…