Pierre van Hooijdonk: "Dutch clubs cannot compete with Chelsea, Barcelona or Real Madrid in financial aspects"

Former Dutch international Pierre van Hooijdonk in an exclusive interview for FootballTop.com shared his thoughts about the Legends Cup in Moscow where he played in February, explained why the Eredivisie sides fail to impress in Europe and talked about his ambitions in journalism.

You played for the Dutch team at the Legends Cup-2013 in Moscow. What are your impressions about the tournament?
The competition is great. We were happy because we did not expect to claim a high place, but we managed to defeat Germany and finished fourth. Overall the most important thing is that I can play with my friends.

Do you perceive this tournament as an entertainment or a competition? And how do you get motivated for friendly games?
We wanted to win this year, but with Russia in the group it is almost impossible. We know we will take the third or the fourth place at best. But frankly speaking I always aim as high as possible.

What is your opinion about Feyenoord’s run this season, the club where you spent three seasons?
They are doing really well. They have got some talented players and they have improved a lot in the last couple of years. They have a good coach now and the way he builds the team clearly makes them play better.

But unfortunately Dutch teams do not succeed in European competitions. What are the reasons for that?
The main one is that top European clubs are buying our players at a very young age. Dutch clubs cannot compete with Chelsea, Barcelona or Real Madrid in financial aspects.

Do you believe that trend will change in the future?
No. We just have to accept our position in the word of football.

What are your goals and aspirations in the life without football?
I set my eyes on making a career on television as a football pundit. Currently I write a column in a monthly magazine, but it is only a start.