PSV produced their most convincing performance of the young Eredivisie season on Sunday, beating FC Groningen 5-1 at the Philips Stadion.

After scoring four goals across their opening two matches, PSV found their attacking rhythm in emphatic fashion. Ivan Perišić and Ricardo Pepi fuelled a ruthless offensive display at Philips Stadion, while Ruben van Bommel’s creative brilliance exposed gaps in Groningen’s struggling backline.

Perišić was particularly important, scoring twice and combining his attacking contribution with a considerable defensive workload. He finished with five attempts, two on target, four tackles and seven possession regains.

Pepi also provided the cutting edge Bosz needed. The American striker converted from the penalty spot shortly before half-time before adding his second in the 53rd minute, racing onto Mauro Júnior's through ball and finishing precisely.

Dest completed the rout just three minutes later, bringing PSV's total to five.

Peter Bosz praised Ruben van Bommel’s outstanding display as PSV Eindhoven swept aside FC Groningen 5-1.

The winger’s return from injury was one of the major talking points after a game that repeatedly opened into the transition-based contest PSV wanted.

Head coach Peter Bosz was particularly pleased with the energy and intensity his side showed after initially struggling to contain Groningen's direct threat.

The match suited Van Bommel, who repeatedly found space in one-on-one situations and used his pace and movement to unsettle the visitors.

Bosz felt the nature of the game played into PSV's strengths, with both sides adopting an aggressive one-on-one approach.

“The whole team delivered a top-notch performance, and Ruben stood out with his moves. Both teams play a 1-on-1 style, so you automatically get a back-and-forth match. They move a lot, and it all gets mixed up,” Bosz said.

PSV were initially vulnerable, with Groningen creating an early opportunity, but the hosts gradually gained control. The penalty before half-time gave them a 3-1 advantage, and Bosz believed his side would eventually pull away.

“I also said in the locker room that the match wasn’t over yet. On the other hand, we’re used to this, while FC Groningen had more trouble sustaining it for ninety minutes. I was fully confident that it would turn out well. You could see and feel that there was energy in the team.”

Bosz was also encouraged by his midfield combination of Noah Fernandez, Kodai Sano and Guus Til.

“That worked well. Sano played very well, Fernandez also had a good game, and Til brought something different with his depth. With Sven and Paul, we also have other options in those positions. In the coming weeks, we’ll see what works best.”

Van Bommel was central to PSV's attacking performance after returning from a serious injury. The winger explained that Groningen's approach gave him the conditions to play his natural game.

“Yes, I had a lot of space and, as a result, often found myself in one-on-one situations. That also had to do with how we played: the ball came to me quickly. I like to take advantage of that space, because I know that’s where my strength lies.”

Bosz was delighted with the youngster's display but stressed that consistency will be the next challenge.

“He was fantastic today, but one swallow doesn’t make a summer. His range of movement still needs to improve. He showed today that he’s actually ready to make a play like that every time, and that’s what you want to see.”

The PSV coach added: “At the top level; where he has the qualities to compete; he needs to be able to demonstrate that in every game. That was the case today, and he’s working hard on it. To do that, you have to be in top physical condition, but that’s also what we have to demand of him. Today was truly amazing.”

Van Bommel admitted that he still has to build up his ability to play at full intensity for 90 minutes.

“Physically, I’m in good shape and feel fit. But being fully fit for ninety minutes is something else entirely. Building that up is actually the only thing still missing a bit, but that will come naturally as I play more matches.”

The winger also acknowledged that his finishing could have been better after passing up several opportunities.

“I did have a few chances to score myself, but I often chose a different option. Maybe I should have gone for it a few times myself, but ultimately you want to set up the player with the best chance.”

Van Bommel received a standing ovation from the PSV supporters, a moment he clearly appreciated after his lengthy absence.

“You definitely enjoy that. When you’ve been out of action for so long, you really look forward to moments like this. Today, it was perhaps even more enjoyable.”

For Bosz, the task now is to ensure Van Bommel can reproduce that level regularly. “It’s up to us to ensure he gets the most out of his talents,” he said.