Rafael van der Vaart: 'I didn't rate him at all at first, but...'

Rafael van der Vaart has been impressed by Vangelis Pavlidis's development. When the now 27-year-old striker was still at Willem II, Van der Vaart did not expect him to grow into a top forward.

Pavlidis played in the Netherlands from 2019 to 2024, first for Willem II and later for AZ. Two years ago, he left the Alkmaar club for Benfica for €18 million.

Pavlidis has thrived in Portugal. In the 123 official matches he has played for Benfica so far, he has registered 74 goals and 22 assists.

On Thursday evening, he faces the Netherlands with the Greek national team in the Nations League. That is why Pavlidis's development is being discussed on NOS.

"A good player," says Wim Kieft. "I always thought he was a good player. But at that time I would never have expected him to become so good at Benfica and score so many."

"A wonderful footballer. Always in control of the ball, he can turn quickly in tight spaces and is a terrific target man. I have always rated him very highly."

Van der Vaart sees it differently. "I didn't rate him at all. But Pierre (van Hooijdonk, ed.) always told me that he was a very good player. And Pierre was unbelievably right. He kept taking another step every time. Now again."