Van den Brom’s reshuffle targets FC Twente comeback in Bakoe

John van den Brom has unveiled FC Twente’s starting XI for the Conference League return against Qarabag in Bakoe, where the Dutch side must overturn a 1‑0 first‑leg deficit to stay in the competition. The changes include Younes Taha and Max Bruns in the lineup, while the squad travels without Sam Lammers, Stav Lemkin and Kristian Hlynsson.

First‑leg loss forces uphill battle

Twente fell 1‑0 at the Grolsch Veste last week, leaving the Tukkers with a narrow margin to reverse in Bakoe. The club travelled to Azerbeidzjan for the fixture, and the defeat means they must win the away leg to reach the competitive phase of the Conference League.

Van den Brom’s reshuffle reshapes the defence

In the new Opstelling, Aske Adelgaard sits on the bench, allowing Max Bruns to start at centre‑back. The back line now consists of Ruud Nijstad, Robin Pröpper and Bart van Rooij alongside Bruns.

The midfield remains unchanged, with Daouda Weidmann joining Ramiz Zerrouki ahead of Thomas van den Belt, while Daan Rots returns to his newly assigned number 10 role.

Brom under pressure to spark new rhythm as Twente eyes Baku

Up front, Younes Taha occupies the right flank, pushing Marko Pjaca to the bench. The striking partnership of Wout Weghorst and Sondre Ørjasæter completes the attack alongside Bruns.

Sam Lammers missed Monday’s training with a hamstring injury; Van den Brom said the striker could be available again this weekend, despite interest from PSV. Kristian Hlynsson and Stav Lemkin are also sidelined for a longer period.

The Opstelling, also streamed on VI Live, underscores Twente’s determination to overturn the deficit and secure a place in the Conference League’s competitive stage.