La Liga
Kees Smit continues to gain protagonism in European football and attracts interest from big clubs. At just 19 years old, the young midfielder from AZ Alkmaar is in the spotlight thanks to his tactical maturity and potential.
Dutch national team coach, Ronald Koeman, former manager of FC Barcelona, made the comparison: "I see shades of Pedri in him."
Kees Smit has shined this season in the Eredivisie with AZ Alkmaar, establishing himself as a starter in midfield. Despite his youth, he has impressive statistics: two goals, two assists, and a passing accuracy above 85%.
Kees Smit and Ronald Koeman's endorsement for Barcelona
Ronald Koeman stated, "the turns, using both feet, vision of the game... that's what I saw in Pedri and what I'm seeing in Kees Smit." This nod from the technical figure enhances Barcelona's interest in the Dutch talent.
Furthermore, Kees Smit doesn't hide his admiration for Barcelona. He mentioned, "I watch almost every Barcelona match" and follows Pedri attentively. This emotional connection strengthens the idea that, if an opportunity arises, Barcelona would be a desired destination.
Mid-term projection of the emerging midfielder
Kees Smit's growth at AZ has been rapid. He signed a professional contract with the Dutch club and emerged as a star in youth categories before making it to the first team. Reports indicate that top European clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid are closely monitoring him.
However, those around the player emphasize his focus on accumulating minutes with AZ before making a bigger move. "Nothing is set in stone," he declared in a recent interview.

The Barcelona influence and the role of the young Dutchman
Barcelona has been aware of Kees Smit since he was 17 years old. He is one of those talents that has been on their radar for several months.
In this regard, Koeman's endorsement carries significant weight. The admiration of Kees Smit by someone who coached Barcelona and understands the club's philosophy enhances his market value and potential fit with the Catalan club.
Simultaneously, Kees Smit has been involved with the Dutch U-21 national team, and although he hasn't debuted with the senior team yet, his call-up follows Koeman's praise.
Amidst growing interest, Kees Smit remains composed. "If he believes it, maybe it's true," he said regarding the comparison with Pedri. "It's flattering, but I know I must keep working." His comments reflect maturity and awareness of the situation.
For Ronald Koeman, the prediction is ambitious yet realistic: "If he achieves half of what Pedri has, everyone in the Netherlands will be happy." Many analysts at Barcelona agree that Kees Smit's release clause will be closely monitored in the upcoming transfer windows.
Kees Smit emerges as one of the most promising talents in European football. With Ronald Koeman's backing and Barcelona's attention, the young midfielder from AZ shows clear signs of being ready for the next step. His development in the Eredivisie will be crucial in determining when and where that leap will occur.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Koeman le recomienda al Barcelona el fichaje del nuevo Pedri
