Penetra joins AZ
Published on 24 juli 23, 20:15AZALKMAAR - Alexandre Penetra is the newest signing of AZ. The 21-year-old defender signed a five-year contract on Monday afternoon. Penetra joins from the Portuguese club FC Famalicão.
Penetra went through the youth academy of SL Benfica. Three years ago, he made the switch to FC Famalicão. In the last two seasons, he managed to secure a spot in the starting lineup for the team, which finished eighth in the Portuguese league for two consecutive years.
Portuguese acquaintance
At AZ, Penetra reunites with Tiago Dantas. The players know each other from their time in Benfica's youth academy. Moreover, they played together for Portugal U21 during the last summer's European Championship. Penetra played the full ninety minutes in all four matches that Portugal played in the tournament.
Penetra: 'An important step'
Penetra speaks enthusiastically about his choice: "I am very happy to be a part of AZ. It is an important step in my career. The story of AZ appealed to me a lot. Also, the fact that many young players get opportunities at AZ makes this move a well-considered decision for me." At AZ, Penetra will meet Dantas, another new addition, with whom he is familiar. Penetra says, "Of course, I have been in touch with Tiago because we are friends. We played together in the youth academy and last summer at the Euros. It's nice to have a familiar face around when embarking on a new adventure."
Huiberts: 'Temperament'
Director of Football Max Huiberts: "The transfer eventually happened quite quickly. It always helps when the player himself is very eager to join AZ. Alexandre is a defender who can play in multiple positions. Both in central defense and as a right-back. I see him as a Dutch defender with the well-known South European temperament. He doesn't shy away from challenges and is strong in the air. He is also good with the ball at his feet. Off the field, he is a stable and calm guy. But once on the field, his temperament comes to the fore. We are pleased to add a defender who can play in multiple positions."
Number five
Penetra will play in Alkmaar with the number five jersey. Moreover, Penetra is the fifth addition to AZ. David Møller Wolfe, Ruben van Bommel, Denso Kasius, and Tiago Dantas have already joined the club this summer.