Fans hail Zechiël as Frenkie de Jong look‑alike after friendly win

Gjivai Zechiël, the 22‑year‑old Feyenoord midfielder, dazzled in Friday’s friendly against Sporting Charleroi, prompting fans to liken his playmaking to Frenkie de Jong while the French club Lille reportedly offered ten million euros for his signature. He was involved in all three Rotterdam goals, delivering the assist for Gaoussou Diarra’s equaliser and setting up Mats Deijl and Tijme Wessels.

Zechiël entered the match when Feyenoord trailed 0‑1. He then delivered the decisive pass to Gaoussou Diarra, who levelled the score.

In the build‑up to Mats Deijl’s second‑half strike, Zechiël sent Casper Tengstedt on a through ball. For the third goal he found Tijme Wessels with a wide pass, completing his involvement in all three Rotterdamse scores.

Former club attacker Anass Achahbar praised the midfielder, saying, "Ik vind het echt een geweldenaar. Hij speelt goed tussen de linies en scant eigenlijk altijd zijn omgeving," and added, "Hij is constant aanspeelbaar, à la Frenkie de Jong en noem ze maar op." Achahbar highlighted Zechiël’s ability to create space for attackers.

Zowel Anass Achahbar als de Feyenoord-fans zijn lyrisch over his impact. Supporters described his performance as a rare display of vision and energy.

According to reports, Lille have already tabled a ten‑million‑euro bid for the 22‑year‑old. Feyenoord fans say they would block any move, preferring to keep the talent in Rotterdam.

One observer even claimed Zechiël is better than fellow midfielder Luciano Valente. The comparison underscores the high expectations surrounding his future.