Official: Barcelona great Patrick Kluivert joins Super Eagles star at history-making Adana

Adana Demirspor have made a significant appointment by bringing former Netherlands international Patrick Kluivert as the club’s new Technical Director, Soccernet.ng reports. 

The Dutch football legend will take over from Vicenzo Montella, the former Italian international forward.

Montella steered Adana Demirspor to an impressive fourth-place finish in the Süper Lig during the 2022-23 season, a historic achievement for the club, securing their qualification for European competitions for the first time.

In his new role, Kluivert will have the opportunity to work closely with talented Super Eagles winger Henry Onyekuru, who played a vital role in Adana’s remarkable campaign last season.

Onyekuru, who was on loan from Greek club Olympiakos, made an immediate impact in Turkey, scoring eight goals and providing three assists in 30 league appearances for the club known as the Blue Lightnings.

The Nigerian forward’s outstanding performances have left a lasting impression on Adana Demirspor.

And according to reports, the new Turkish big boys have exercised their option to secure his services permanently.

Onyekuru has reportedly signed a three-year contract to keep him at the club until the summer of 2026. Adana Demirspor will €3.5 million to finalize the deal.

Under the guidance of Kluivert, the Nigeria international will strive to propel Adana Demirspor to challenge reigning champions Galatasaray in the upcoming Super Lig season.

Additionally, the club will aim to make an impact in their inaugural participation in the Europa Conference League.

Kluivert, who made his mark as part of Ajax’s Golden Generation in the 1990s, notably scoring the winner in the 1995 UEFA Champions League Final at 18, boasts an illustrious career.

He spent six successful years at Barcelona and also featured for AC Milan, Valencia, and PSV, cementing his reputation as one of the greatest Dutch strikers of all time.

After retiring from professional football in 2008, the 46-year-old has honed his managerial skills, serving as an assistant manager for the Netherlands and Cameroon national teams.

With his vast experience and expertise, Kluivert is expected to make a significant impact on Adana Demirspor’s future endeavours.