From Rotterdam to League One: Bronkhorst’s first foreign move at 29

The John Smith’s Stadium was quiet this morning, but inside Excelsior’s offices a 29-year-old defender was finalising his next step. Ilias Bronkhorst will leave the Rotterdam club after 74 appearances, ending his three-year spell in the Eredivisie.

Bronkhorst’s contract expired and was not renewed, confirming his transfer-free departure. He will now join Huddersfield Town in League One, England’s third tier, on a deal running until mid-2028.

The right-back had expressed a desire to pursue an overseas adventure this season. At 29, he described it as the right moment to turn his dream into reality and give his career a fresh chapter. His entire senior career had been spent at Koninklijke HFC, Telstar, NEC, FC Dordrecht and Excelsior—until now.

Huddersfield Town, founded in 1908, has fluctuated between tiers but retains a proud history. The club has won England’s top flight three times and still plays at the John Smith’s Stadium, which holds around 24,500 spectators. As recently as 2018/19, they competed in the Premier League.

For Bronkhorst, the move marks his first club outside the Netherlands. His contract with Huddersfield Town runs until at least the summer of 2028, giving him stability as he adapts to life in League One.