"When I see everything he's accomplishing at that level, it's unprecedented," Cillessen remarked in an interview with De Gelderlander during NEC's training camp in Spain. "Robin handles himself so effortlessly in one of the most physically demanding leagues in the world. He does it with two fingers in his nose, as we say – with absolute ease."
Cillessen and Roefs were teammates, sharing goalkeeping duties at NEC just two seasons ago. "When I left for Las Palmas, Robin took over from me. I could grandly claim I saw his development coming, but honestly, Robin continues to amaze me."
Penalty Killer
Cillessen also witnessed the viral moment where Roefs saved an incredible three penalties in the FA Cup match against Everton. "I try to watch many of his games anyway. He's still so down-to-earth. It's as if he's just playing football with friends in Heeswijk (his hometown, ed.). Although, I do see him showing more emotion now than he did at NEC. He actually celebrates a goal now!"
There are also growing calls for Roefs to make his debut for the Dutch national team, Oranje, with some even suggesting he should be the starting goalkeeper for the 2026 World Cup. Things are moving at a lightning-fast pace for the Sunderland shot-stopper, who only made his NEC debut about 2.5 years ago.
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