FC Twente defender Mees Hilgers absent from training after automatic contract extension

Mees Hilgers, a centre‑back under contract with FC Twente until July 2027, has missed the first three pre‑season trainings at the club’s Hengelo facility. The club confirmed the absence and said it will discuss the matter with the player. Hilgers’ contract was automatically extended for one season in May after his agent failed to terminate it before the deadline, binding him to Twente despite his wish to leave.

The defender, who suffered an ACL rupture last season and has a market value of about €3 million, was later seen in a private training session with former Ajax midfielder Donny van de Beek and fellow Dutch player Kian Fitz‑Jim, wearing a Feyenoord shirt. His situation has drawn criticism of his agent and speculation about potential arbitration, while supporters expressed frustration over his prolonged absence from club activities.