Givairo Read’s return fuels Feyenoord ambitions and Oranje hopes

Givairo Read (20) declared himself fully fit ahead of his first competitive outing of the new season, a 0-6 pre-season win over FC Dordrecht for Feyenoord. The Amsterdam-born defender, who has endured persistent hamstring issues, now eyes both club and international honours after his recovery. “It’s true there is interest,” he confirmed when asked about external approaches.

Read dismissed suggestions he follows football beyond his own matches, stating he rarely watches full games, even during major tournaments like the World Cup. “I’m not a football viewer,” he said. “I watch my own matches back, of course, and sometimes highlights. But full matches are usually too late for me, especially during the World Cup.”

His professionalism extends beyond the pitch. Read recalled making his Champions League debut for Feyenoord against AS Roma as a substitute, a moment that underscored his commitment to discipline, including early nights ahead of matches. “You have to go to bed on time,” he said. “I’d rather miss a World Cup game than be unprepared for my own.”

Reports indicate interest from Paris FC and rumours of Bayern Munich monitoring his progress. Read, however, remains focused on Feyenoord. “I don’t concern myself with transfer talk,” he said. “I’m happy here. I’ve never won a league title with this club. That’s a goal I’d love to achieve this season.”

The defender spent part of his summer holiday in Marbella but admitted he would have preferred to skip the break entirely. “I wasn’t ready for a holiday,” he said. “Not after everything I’ve been through.” His absence last season was largely due to a recurring hamstring injury that curtailed his progress just as he returned to fitness.

Read reflected on the frustration of 2023-24, when injury struck just as the campaign concluded. “If I had played every match last season, I might not even be here now,” he said. “But since I am still at Feyenoord, I want to show what I can do. I’m really looking forward to the new season.”

His journey began in Amsterdam’s Bijlmer district, where he grew up with his parents, brother, and twin sisters. Starting at AVV Zeeburgia, Read was a prolific scorer before FC Volendam signed him. His rise mirrors peers like Tyrell Malacia and Quilindschy Hartman, both products of Rotterdam’s youth football culture.

Read’s connection to Rotterdam is palpable. “I feel at home here,” he said. “I want to be important for Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s team this season—both in the league and the Champions League.”

International ambitions remain a priority. “I hope to put myself in the picture for the Netherlands,” Read said. “I know the competition at my position is tough, but there’s plenty to win.” With a smile, he added, “There’s a lot on the line.”