Esmee Brugts: ”I would get a cynical look when I was the only girl stepping onto the field”
She is one of the shining stars of the Dutch national team: Esmee Brugts. The dynamic and stylish winger represents FC Barcelona, one of the most prestigious clubs in the world. From the bustling streets of Catalonia to the grand stages of European football, Brugts takes us inside her life in Barcelona and the incredible journey she embarked on to earn the honor of wearing the iconic Blaugrana jersey.
Brugts laced up her first football boots at SV Heinenoord, just a stone’s throw away from her childhood home. It became the place where she had her first official training sessions and matches, playing in boys’ teams surrounded by familiar faces. Esmee Brugts: “It never felt strange to play among the boys; I didn’t know anything else.” Although the opposing team’s supporters sometimes thought differently. “I would occasionally get a cynical look when I was the only girl stepping onto the field,” Esmee recalls. “But after a few touches of the ball, that was usually over.” And so began an adventure in which, to this day, she remains the triumphant main character. In 2023, the Heinenoord native was named the biggest Dutch talent of the season, and so she secured her dream transfer. She swapped Eindhoven for sunnier scenes in Southern Europe.
Barça Femení
By signing a contract with Champions League winners FC Barcelona, reaching the absolute top of world football became a reality last year. Esmee affirms: “FC Barcelona Femení holds a leading position in women’s football, with the best level and the best players. The philosophy there is: if your team improves, you improve as well. Every day, training is incredibly intense to become better, and everyone is ready to help each other, so there is no better place to grow physically and mentally.”
Her mental resilience is also evident in her unique perspective on pre-match nerves. “If you feel nervous, it means something great is about to happen,” she explains. “I tell myself: you get to experience this, so don’t forget to enjoy it.” And enjoying life in vibrant Barcelona is something Esmee does effortlessly. She finds relaxation in dinners with friends, monthly family visits, and moments of reflection on a quiet beach outside the city. “I’m a thinker,” she admits. “Even though I often live day by day due to my busy schedule, I regularly take a moment to reflect on everything I’m experiencing.” When we ask Brugts if she is proud of herself, there is a brief silence. “Of course, I’m proud of what I have already achieved,” she begins. “But I want to become much better and achieve so much more.”
Inspired by Esmee Brugts’ journey? Discover more stories of women shaping football beyond the pitch here.
