Jadiel Pereira da Gama has made history in the Netherlands. As of Friday evening, the midfielder is the youngest player ever to play in the Eredivisie.
It was the 88th minute when coach Johnny Jansen sent Jadiel Pereira da Gama onto the field for Sherel Floranus during PEC Zwolle’s match against Telstar Velsen. It was a special moment for the club, for the Dutch top division, and above all for Pereira da Gama. At the time of his substitution, he was just 15 years and 243 days old – and thus wrote himself into the history books.
Pereira da Gama is now the youngest player ever to play in the Eredivisie – and he did so in front of national coach Ronald Koeman, whose son Ronald junior was in goal for opponents Telstar. The youngster has replaced the previous record holder, Wim Kras, who died in 2023 and played for FC Volendam in November 1959 at the age of 15 years and 290 days.
“Like Lamine Yamal”: Champions League in sight
“I definitely want to play in the Champions League. Preferably when I’m 16, just like Lamine Yamal,” Pereira da Gama said after the game, which Zwolle won 2-0 with the help of the defensive player, who comes from Zwolle’s soccer academy.
Zwolle will not play again until August 31, when they face FC Utrecht. Pereira da Gama could then make his debut for PEC’s professional team at his home stadium. And perhaps celebrate a third win in three games.
