Tadic declares readiness as Schreuder eyes NEC debut vs Olympiakos

In the bustling training ground of NEC Nijmegen, 37‑year‑old Serbian forward Dusan Tadic declared his readiness as trainer Dick Schreuder prepares to hand him a starting role on Tuesday in the Champions League preliminary round against Greek side Olympiakos Piraeus, following his unofficial debut in a 1‑2 friendly loss to Sevilla.

The decision follows Tadic’s signing of a multi‑year contract with NEC earlier this week, underscoring the club’s commitment to the veteran forward.

The 37‑year‑old Serb emphasised he feels fully prepared for his official debut wearing the NEC kit.

On Friday evening he entered the friendly against Sevilla, which ended 1‑2, receiving applause from the crowd as a substitute.

After the match, speaking to cameras, he said: “It was good to be here, also with the fans. It is nice that I got minutes, felt the ball, did some sprints and got to sense the boys.”

Since joining NEC, Tadic has logged three training sessions and roughly thirty minutes of competitive play, gaining a feel for the team’s rhythm.

He praised the squad’s intensity, talent and experience, calling it a good mix and noting the need to find the right connection on the pitch.

Trainer Dick Schreuder will make the final call on the starting XI, with Dusan, listed among the 22 players for the clash with Olympiakos, affirming his availability.

Looking ahead, Tadic urged belief and sharpness to secure qualification for the next Champions League round against the Greek powerhouse.