Calvin Stengs is officially set to reunite with AZ Alkmaar, returning to the club on a free transfer after an injury-plagued stint that saw him leave Feyenoord this summer. Mounir Boualin reports that the deal will be short term for the 27-year-old winger, who desperately needs a fresh start.
A Winger’s Return to Where It All Began
It feels like a lifetime ago that Calvin Stengs was tearing it up as a winger for AZ Alkmaar, racking up over 100 appearances and 24 goals before making the jump to Nice in 2021. His time in Ligue 1 was a tough go, with just one goal in 32 games, but a loan to Antwerp in 2022 saw him find his footing. He played 31 games for Antwerp, scoring three goals and becoming a key player in their league and cup double win. That’s also where he shifted into a central midfield role under Mark van Bommel, a move that really paid off.
From Cup Glory to Injury Woes
Feyenoord saw that potential, buying him from Nice, and Stengs spent two seasons there, netting nine goals in 59 games and even helping them win the 2023/2024 KNVB Cup. But then, the injury bug hit hard. Last season was a real struggle, with injuries taking their toll. He ended up on loan to Pisa, but could only manage four appearances. It’s been a rough ride since leaving his first club.
Now, the 27-year-old is back where it all began. This short term deal with AZ Alkmaar is a massive opportunity for Stengs to turn the page, put his recent injury history squarely in the rearview mirror, and remind everyone what he can do on the pitch.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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