Sun 03 Aug - Posted in Breaking News
Time to read: 3mins
Kenzo Goudmijn has described himself as ‘really motivated and excited’ ahead of the start of Derby County’s 2025/26 Sky Bet Championship season.
The midfielder was on target, scoring directly from a corner, as Derby rounded off their pre-season games programme with a 2-0 home win over Greek top-flight side Atromitos on Saturday.
Goudmijn, who is 23, is preparing for his second season in Rams colours after signing from AZ Alkmaar in his homeland just over a year ago.
He made 44 appearances, scoring twice, in his first year in English football and the former Netherlands youth international admitted to having a season of ups and downs.
After a year to adapt to life in the Championship and in a new country, Goudmijn is eager to build on the positives of last season and be a more consistent performer under Head Coach John Eustace in the 2025/26 campaign.
Goudmijn spoke to RamsTV after the win over Atromitos to review the Rams’ pre-season preparations, the first under the management of Eustace and his staff following their arrival in the second half of last season to impressively lead Derby to Championship survival.
It was good; a good 90 minutes for loads of players. We got a clean sheet and a win and it feels like we’ve had a good six weeks where we’ve really upped the standards. We’ve been tough on each other but worked hard. I’m happy we can start the real stuff now and I feel like we’re ready.
I’d be lying if I said I meant it! I knew I had to swing it towards the goal so if everyone missed it the ball would go in. It was a first for me and a funny way to score a goal.
I am happy that I’ve been able to get lots of minutes and I feel fit. We’ve had loads of games and tough sessions. I think my body has got used more to the multiple games and to the physicality. I feel strong and good when I am in contact in duels. I came in last year and felt I started well but there was a moment after 14 or so games like I couldn’t get what I wanted to out of my body. I believe I am ready now that it won’t happen.
I am really motivated and excited to get started. I want to show everyone what I can do. I had a season with ups and downs last year. The high moments were pretty good, so I want to do that more consistently.
