Sven Mijnans’ stunning hat-trick propelled PSV back to the Eredivisie summit, yet Dutch icon Ruud Gullit insists the midfielder must shed his timidness to reach a higher level.
Sven Mijnans’ hat-trick against Sparta Rotterdam has offered a major boost after a difficult start at PSV, but Ruud Gullit believes the midfielder still needs to find an extra spark as he adapts to life at a higher level.
Mijnans was handed a starting role by Peter Bosz last Sunday and was deployed as a striker on paper as PSV recovered from an early deficit to beat Sparta 4-1.
The 25-year-old scored all three of his goals in different ways, playing a decisive role in a result that also returned PSV to the top of the Eredivisie.
Mijnans arrived at Eindhoven last summer from AZ for around €13 million, becoming PSV’s first signing of the summer. His adaptation has not been straightforward, but his latest performance suggested that he is beginning to settle into Bosz’s team.
Gullit, however, believes there is still another level Mijnans can reach.
Speaking on Rondo on Ziggo Sport, the former PSV player reflected on one of Mijnans’ earlier appearances and the adjustment he required after moving to a bigger club.
“When Mijnans came on the last time, I found him a bit timid. It is also adapting to a higher level. I hope he gets the spark now.”
The Sparta performance could be an important step in that process. Mijnans was given the responsibility of leading the line and responded immediately, rewarding Bosz’s decision with three goals.
Brands Reveals Mijnans’ Own Assessment
PSV general director Marcel Brands also offered insight into Mijnans’ mindset following his arrival at the club.
According to Brands as relayed by PSV Inside, the midfielder has been realistic about his own performances and understands that he has not yet consistently produced the level he believes he can reach.
“There he was himself very realistic. Peter spoke with him after the preparations and then he said: ‘I don’t feel like I’m already bringing what I can bring.’”
Brands also revealed Bosz’s assessment of Mijnans’ recent progress, suggesting that the PSV manager is increasingly convinced by what the midfielder is producing.
“Peter also said: ‘In fact I really can't get around him anymore. He's playing brilliantly and he's a boy who manifests himself in a very positive way.’”
That competition for places has also become increasingly significant within PSV’s attack.
Gullit pointed to Ricardo Pepi’s performance in the Champions League draw with Shakhtar Donetsk, where the American striker struggled to influence the game.
“Against Shakhtar, Pepi was practically not involved. They had it difficult already, but he also did not make himself visible.”
Gullit added:
“He didn’t ask for the ball, and that’s how they got into trouble as well.”
Mijnans’ emergence therefore gives Bosz another option in the attacking positions, while also increasing competition for places. His hat-trick against Sparta has provided a timely response after a difficult opening period, but Gullit’s comments underline that the midfielder’s development at PSV remains a work in progress.
