In this exclusive interview, we speak with Tiemen De Bel, a promising young goalkeeper born in 2006, currently playing for Cercle Brugge. At just 17 years old, De Bel has already made waves, recently earning a spot in the team’s squad for their European Cup matches. His rapid rise is a testament to his talent, hard work, and determination. We discuss his experiences, aspirations, and the challenges he faces as he continues to develop his career with the first team and Jong Cercle.
Which clubs have you played for since you started football until today?
Beernem, Aalter, Varsenare, KV Kortrijk, Cercle Brugge. 5 clubs. All have been very important in my journey so far.
Who is your favorite Belgian player?
Thibaut Courtois. He saved Belgium many times in important games and made the country proud by taking the title of best GK in the world.
Have you always played as a goalkeeper?
I’ve played 3 years as a Central Defender and 2 years as a Right Winger before I changed position after U11.
Why did you choose to become a goalkeeper?
I chose to become a GK because I love the adrenaline when you make an important save and put your body on the line for the team.
Is there a player who is your role model?
My role model was Miguel Van Damme since I was a little kid. I always wanted to be like him. He was the GK of Cercle (I am a Cercle supporter) and I looked up to him. RIP.
You were able to take part in training with the first team at just 16 years old, how did you experience that?
In my first 1st team training sessions with KV Kortrijk, I was only 15 years old, so it required a lot of adapt to the level and speed of the game. It wasn’t always easy to be such a young player in a 1st team environment without other young players, but I still enjoyed every moment of it. It felt like a trigger to work even harder, because I felt anything is possible in my career.
We recently saw that you were in the Cercle Brugge squad for some Conference League matches, how did you feel when you found out you were going to be in the squad?
It was an amazing feeling. Being selected for Europa League and Conference League qualifying games and traveling with the 1st team so early in my career was a great feeling. The fans were also amazing. For me as a Cercle supporter, it was extra special!
You were also a starter for the first time with Jong Cercle in 1st National, how did that first match go?
We won the first league game. I feel like I played a really good match with some important saves. I enjoyed it a lot.
We've seen that you were sometimes captain. What personal or football qualities do you think led the coaches to name you captain of the team?
I have a great connection with my teammates. They respected me and listened to me when I gave them advice. I also have good communication qualities, which helps. I enjoyed being Captain and had a lot of fun.
What are your personal goals for this season?
I want to play a good season and help Cercle finish as high as possible. I also want to continue my development, so I can reach my goals.
Which trophy would you most like to win in your career?
I think everyone dreams of winning the Champions League or World Cup. I am definitely motivated to win the biggest trophies. But in the near future, I hope to win the league.
Message from Tiemen:
I would just like to thank everyone who has supported me in my career so far. Especially my family, friends, coaches, glove sponsor and agent.
