Bart Nieuwkoop: “I want to win as many trophies as possible in my career”
In this interview, Bart Nieuwkoop reflects on his return to Feyenoord, his renewed feeling of belonging, and the experiences that shaped him both as a player and a person. Now in his second spell at the club, he talks openly about style, growth, mentorship, and the dreams he still carries in this exclusive Life After Football interview.
Fashion plays a big role in Nieuwkoop’s life, not as something loud, but as a way of expressing personality in small details. In this first part of the interview, he talks about his own style, the players he looks up to, and who in the dressing room sets the standard when it comes to clothes.
How would you describe your clothing style?
Bart Nieuwkoop: “I would describe my clothing style as calm. A bit chic, sporty. For me, my clothing style doesn’t need to be very outspoken. I’m someone who likes to keep things calm and clean. Then it’s already good for me.”
Who do you think is the most fashionable footballer of all time?
“That’s a good question. I think Memphis Depay has made the difference in recent years. He actually always wears great outfits and looks good and well-groomed from head to toe. If I go a bit further back in time, I think of David Beckham, he’s really a style icon in sport. I’m coincidentally following his documentary on Netflix and he is definitely a contender for me.”
Which teammate has the best clothing style and why?
“In my first period at Feyenoord, I think it was Jeremiah St. Juste. He always came in with something new and something beautiful. He left a really good impression on me with his unique outfits. He dared to be different from the rest, really outgoing. I really liked that, so Jeremiah is the ex-teammate with the best clothing style for me.”
Is fashion a big topic in the Feyenoord dressing room?
“I notice that in the Netherlands it’s more present than in Belgium. I played there for the past two years and fashion wasn’t really a topic in the dressing room. I honestly found that a bit disappointing because I love talking about fashion. Now that I’ve been back in Rotterdam for a few months, I immediately notice that a lot is discussed here. I personally enjoy that I can talk about fashion with my teammates again.”
Nieuwkoop reflects on the footballing path that shaped his career, from defining highs to the lessons learned along the way. His perspective reveals the pride and responsibility he feels at representing Feyenoord on major stages.
What is the highlight of your career so far?
“The highlight of my career so far is of course the championship with Feyenoord in 2017. Unfortunately that’s already long behind me and still the highlight, because you always want more and better. But a year like that doesn’t happen often. We played really good football and won the league for the first time in eighteen years. It meant a lot to the club, the supporters and the players.”
What does Feyenoord mean to you?
“It’s very nice to be back at Feyenoord. I joined the club as a fifteen-year-old and I can say Feyenoord is really my club. So it’s wonderful that I can return for a second period.”
Who is the best player you’ve ever played with?
“The best player I’ve ever played with is Robin van Persie. He had exceptional qualities and I really enjoyed him. He was also a kind of mentor in the team and helped us become better. It’s great that I was able to play with such a good, experienced player.”
You’re playing Champions League football again with Feyenoord this season. What does that mean to you?
“The Champions League is the highest achievable for a footballer. It’s a dream come true to play in this main European tournament. That’s the stage you want to be on and it’s great that I can play at this level again upon my return. I want to show my qualities in the Champions League and that it’s with Feyenoord makes it even more beautiful.”
Away from the spotlight, Nieuwkoop speaks with clarity about ambition, mentorship, and the values that guide him through the next phase of his career. His reflections show a player who thinks beyond individual moments, always looking toward growth and future success.
What did you buy with your first big paycheck?
“That must have been a pair of sneakers, but I honestly don’t remember exactly which ones and when I bought them. I’m 27 now, so it’s been a while. But I think it was shoes. Back then I liked walking around with a good pair of sneakers.”
What dreams and goals do you still have?
“I want to win as many trophies as possible in my career. Fortunately I’ve already experienced some and I hope to celebrate many successes in my second period at Feyenoord. On to many new, beautiful trophies.”
Ready for more?
Enjoyed reading about Bart Nieuwkoop sharing his story in our exclusive interview? Read the full interview in our magazine issue 79.
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