Justin Kluivert: Bournemouth's Incoming Dutch Forward

When analysing young footballers, their talent, and development, one thing that is constantly overlooked in the conversation is stability. People do not often talk about how difficult it is for players developing in unstable circumstances to make their marks; those who have constantly moved around or sent on too many loans, those who work in environments with too many changing parts, those who have to work with too many coaches with varying philosophies and more.

One player who has never really gotten grace when his career and development are being analysed is Justin Kluivert. At just 24, Kluivert has already played in five different countries. In the past six seasons, he has moved to a different country four times and worked under ten coaches. That means that he has had to adapt to new teammates, new environments, new languages, new coaches, new systems, and new roles almost every year. No matter how talented a player is, this kind of instability is difficult to excel through. It is, therefore, not a surprise that Kluivert’s stock has gradually fallen, especially after a couple of underwhelming loans. 

Once again, he is on the move. It is a different country yet again; England, the one place where the spotlight is overwhelming and the media's voice extends beyond their shores. It could well be the most challenging adaptation of them all, possibly due to a combination of those factors on top of what he has already had to deal with in other countries. The good news for him is that it is not a loan, it is a permanent deal. He is finally off Roma’s books and can be assured of some stability, at least if Bournemouth stay up once again. His career needs it.

Another bit of good news is the manager he gets to play with this time, Andoni Iraola, Bournemouth’s new hire. A highly rated young manager, Iraola’s focus on high pressing and the smart use of channels will suit Kluivert and his skill set perfectly. No doubt, Iraola must have seen Kluivert in Spain this past season, having faced him twice when former club Rayo Vallecano locked horns with Valencia, with whom Kluivert was on loan. He scored a penalty against Rayo in the second leg at Mestalla, after a relentless, all-action performance that emphasised his strengths.