Kees Smit Explains Why He Turned Down Real Madrid to Stay at AZ Alkmaar
Kees Smit, the promising midfielder from AZ Alkmaar, has opened up about why he declined a major summer transfer despite strong interest from Real Madrid. The 20-year-old Dutch talent surprised many by deciding to remain in the Eredivisie after important talks with his current club.
Real Madrid’s Search for Midfield Reinforcements
During the recent transfer window, Real Madrid was actively hunting for new midfield players. They added former Manchester City star Bernardo Silva and young prospect Sergio Martinez, but were still on the lookout for more additions. Their top target was Spain captain Rodri, who eventually chose to join Barcelona instead. This forced Madrid to consider other candidates, including Smit, who featured prominently on their shortlist.
Coach’s Influence Alters Smit’s Decision
Speaking through AZ Alkmaar’s official media, Smit revealed that initially, he thought he would leave the club this summer. But the intervention of head coach Lee-Roy Echteld changed his mind.
“To be honest, at first I had the feeling that I was going to leave, but then it turned out that the coach really wanted me to stay,” said Smit, as reported by AS. “I feel good here, surrounded by friends and family. That’s why I stayed.”
Smit also mentioned that just ten days before the transfer window closed, AZ made it clear they no longer wanted to sell him.
“Ten days ago I had a conversation and then AZ didn’t want to let me go anymore. I took it positively because I feel like I’m not done here yet,” he added.
Ignoring Transfer Rumors
The move to a club like Real Madrid comes with intense media attention, something Smit had to handle as rumors swirled across Spain and the Netherlands. Despite the noise, he decided to distance himself from the speculation.
“At first, I read a lot, but then I started to do it less because some things are not true either. I can cope with it quite well. In short, I’m here and I’m happy to be here,” he said.
Focus on Growth at AZ Alkmaar
With the transfer window closed, Smit can fully focus on his progress at the AFAS Stadion. Staying at AZ ensures regular first-team opportunities, which are crucial for a young player's development under Echteld's guidance.
The midfielder has already shown his value this season. After helping AZ win the KNVB Cup last year, he played a key role in their 4-0 victory over PSV Eindhoven to capture the Johan Cruyff Shield at the start of the campaign.
If he keeps performing strongly in the Eredivisie, clubs like Real Madrid could come calling again. For now, the young star aims to lead AZ forward and prove he’s ready for a bigger challenge down the road.
- LaLiga Match: Real Betis vs Real Madrid, 4 Sept 2026, 21:00
- Eredivisie Match: AZ Alkmaar vs SC Heerenveen, 6 Sept 2026, 14:30
