Armel Bella-Kotchap made his PSV debut on Saturday during his new club’s 4-0 victory over NEC Nijmegen. The German centre-back made a loan move from Southampton on transfer deadline day, and he’s already kicked things off perfectly. Both Bella-Kotchap and Peter Bosz were satisfied with his first match in Eindhoven. ‘I enjoyed making my debut in front of the PSV supporters, they were fantastic,’ the 21-year-old said afterwards. ‘I’m happy that I was allowed to make so many minutes so that I can quickly get my rhythm back.’
Speaking to Voetbal International after the game, head coach Peter Bosz said ‘Armel has made a very good impression on me so far. He already did that during training, but I also think he played well against NEC. You often see that when players are new to a club and make their debut, they want to show the supporters how good they can play football. I asked Armel to play simple and told him that he doesn’t have to show everyone that he has a good long ball.‘
‘Especially in our football, as a central defender, you have to be able to play modestly. He did that. Armel Bella-Kotchap won his duels and he showed his speed when he needed to. He was also always good positionally, which I think is very important. He is football intelligent.’
PSV will certainly need the strength and speed of Armel Bella-Kotchap this week, as they face Arsenal in the Champions League on Wednesday. A trip to the Yanmar Stadion follows this weekend, as PSV take on Almere City. After the weekend’s 4-0 victory over NEC, it’s now four wins in four for the club which means they currently sit at the top of the Eredivisie table.
