Mees Hilgers: SC Heerenveen Debut Must Wait, Fitness Is the Top Priority

VIVA – Indonesian national team defender, Mees Hilgers, has provided an update regarding his debut for new club SC Heerenveen following his official move at the end of August 2026. The player of Manado descent chose not to rush onto the pitch as he remains focused on physical recovery and sharpening his match rhythm after a long absence from competitive football. Hilgers stated that his physical condition is not yet 100 percent ready because his last competitive match at club level was in May 2026 while still playing for FC Twente. His long absence was caused by injuries and internal dynamics with his former club, making training intensity adjustment his top priority alongside the medical staff and coaches of De Superfriezen. "I can follow all the training programs. However, it has been a long time since I played in a match. My main focus now is on rhythm, intensity, and getting used to match situations," Hilgers said in an interview with Dutch media Leeuwarder Courant, quoted on Monday, September 7, 2026. The 25-year-old emphasized that he would only play when he is fully fit. The decision on his debut timing will be carefully discussed with the coaching staff and medical team at SC Heerenveen so he can contribute optimally. "I have to be truly ready for it, both physically and mentally. Of course, this will be done through coordination with the coaching staff and medical team," he explained. Aside from his personal preparation, Hilgers is optimistic about SC Heerenveen's potential to compete in the top tier of Dutch football (Eredivisie) in the 2026/2027 season. Although his team currently sits in 12th place in the standings with five points from five matches, he believes in the quality and depth of the Heerenveen squad to achieve positive results throughout the season. "At Heerenveen, I see a squad with high quality. With good team spirit and a willingness to help each other, we can achieve something beautiful. I believe that," concluded the defender who was brought in for a transfer fee of around 500 thousand euros.