Ruud Nijstad feels criticism before Twente’s Qarabag showdown

18‑year‑old defender Ruud Nijstad admits he finds it difficult to cope with the wave of criticism directed at him and FC Twente ahead of the club’s upcoming crucial return leg against FK Qarabag in the Conference League this season.

Handling criticism off the pitch

When asked about the growing criticism, Nijstad answered directly: “Well, I do find it difficult.” He added that the scrutiny comes from various sources and that it is not pleasant to read.

He explained his routine, saying, “I’ll be completely honest: I spend a lot of time on my phone. So I naturally pick up a lot of things. Yes, it’s not pleasant to read, but when things go well it’s nice to read.” Nijstad also said he is trying to avoid the news and does not read newspapers.

Twente’s Conference League hurdle

FC Twente travel to Azerbaijan on Thursday evening, with kickoff scheduled for 18:00 Dutch time, to overturn a 0‑1 first‑leg deficit against FK Qarabag and secure a place in the competitive phase of the Conference League.

“I’m trying to shut it out more and more,” Nijstad said, noting that sometimes it works better than other times. He concluded with a laugh, “Not watching the news anymore, that’s best. I don’t read newspapers.”

The outcome of Thursday’s match will determine whether Twente progresses to the group stage of the competition, adding extra pressure to the young defender’s performance.