Ruud Nijstad’s Father Breaks Silence on Barcelona Interest: ‘It Was Completely His Decision’
Barcelona have been searching for a long-term solution at centre-back for some time, with the club yet to find a permanent replacement for former defender Iñigo Martínez.
During the summer transfer window, the Catalan side explored the possibility of signing Dutch defensive prospect Ruud Nijstad. However, the highly rated youngster ultimately decided to remain at FC Twente despite attracting interest from several major European clubs.
Barcelona have continued monitoring his development, meaning a move to the Catalan club could still become a possibility in the future.
Now, Nijstad’s father, Maurice, has offered an explanation for why his son rejected the opportunity to leave the Dutch club during the summer.
Nijstad’s Father Explains Why He Stayed at FC Twente
Speaking about his son's decision, Maurice Nijstad made it clear that the choice to remain at FC Twente came entirely from the young defender himself.
"It was completely his decision," he explained, as reported by Diario SPORT.
Maurice also recalled the message Ruud gave him during the summer when they discussed the possibility of a transfer.
According to his father, the defender was determined to continue his journey at Twente because he felt he still had something to accomplish at the club.
"I haven't finished here yet. I want to give something back to the people at Twente who have done so much for me," Ruud reportedly told him.
The comments suggest that the teenager placed considerable importance on loyalty and gratitude towards the club that has helped him develop as a footballer.
Barcelona were among the clubs interested in securing his services, while Ajax, PSV Eindhoven and Juventus had also been linked with the defender.
Nijstad Opens Up About His Strengths and Weaknesses
The same report also explored some of the characteristics of Nijstad's game, including areas where the young centre-back believes he still has room for improvement.
One aspect he openly acknowledged was his relative lack of strength in physical duels.
"That's not where my greatest strength is," Nijstad admitted when discussing his ability in physical battles.
"I rarely get into what my father calls a duel of kicking and shoving. That was more his speciality."
His father agreed with that assessment but highlighted another important quality that helps the youngster avoid unnecessary physical confrontations.
"Ruud has a talent for positioning himself well, so that he rarely finds himself in those situations. And he didn't inherit that from me," Maurice explained.
The comments point towards Nijstad's positional awareness as one of his most valuable defensive attributes.
Barcelona Continue to Monitor the Dutch Defensive Talent
At just 18, Nijstad has become an increasingly prominent figure in FC Twente's defensive setup this season.
His profile is particularly interesting for Barcelona because he is left-footed and comfortable playing out from the back, qualities that could make him a useful addition to Hansi Flick's defensive options.
However, his father's latest comments suggest that the defender is currently focused on continuing his development at Twente rather than pursuing an immediate transfer.
That could make a January move difficult, especially considering the youngster's stated desire to repay the club for the support it has given him.
Barcelona may therefore have to remain patient if they intend to pursue his signature in the future.