From a training‑ground feud to a bond: El Ahmadi recalls Vilhena’s early clash at Feyenoord and his return to Willem II this season in the Eredivisie

During his debut training session at Feyenoord, veteran midfielder Karim El Ahmadi found himself at odds with 16‑year‑old newcomer Tonny Vilhena, a clash the former now recounts in a candid interview with the Brabants Dagblad as the Dutch winger prepares to return to the Eredivisie with Willem II for the season.

First clash on the training pitch

El Ahmadi says he was one of the more experienced boys at Feyenoord while Vilhena was a 16‑year‑old talent. Trainer Ronald Koeman allowed the youngster to train quickly with the first team.

The confrontation unfolded when Vilhena ran hard at El Ahmadi in a duel, refused to apologise and walked away, leaving the veteran puzzled by the “brutaal” behaviour.

Despite the rough start, the two later became best friends, and El Ahmadi views the incident as an early signal of Vilhena’s winner mentality.

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El Ahmadi admits he used the word “brutaal” in a positive sense, praising the young player’s confidence.

He reflects that he cannot recall any training where Vilhena did not give 100 percent, although he admits he cannot pinpoint a specific session.

Vilhena has now signed a one‑season contract with Willem II, marking his return to the Eredivisie this season.

The interview was conducted for the Brabants Dagblad, which asked El Ahmadi about his first memory of the now‑familiar Dutch winger, often referred to as BD in the publication.