Mees Rijks is ready to get going in the blue-and-white quarters after signing for Bristol Rovers from Vålerenga.
The striker, who started the campaign on loan at De Graafschap, was pivotal for Vålerenga in their promotion to the Eliteserien in 2024, netting 13 goals in 27 appearances in the second tier to help the Club finish at the top of the league, 11 points clear of Bryne FK in second place.
Despite being just 22 years old, Rijks is already playing in his third different country after signing a contract until 2028, with the option of a further season. The forward suggested it was an easy decision to come to England and already feels at home.
Speaking to BRTV for the first time since joining Rovers, Rijks reflected on his career so far, his thoughts on English football and why the Pirates were the right team for him.
Mees, welcome to Bristol Rovers Football Club. How does it feel to be here?
“It feels great to be here, it’s really nice.”
What made you choose Bristol Rovers as the next Club for you?
“For me, it was quite an easy decision. I love English football first and foremost; it’s a big city and a big Club with a lot of history. There is a lot of passion involved, and I love that.”
What were the conversations with the gaffer like?
“They were really nice; there was a really clear vision, and that’s what I like. I’m just feeling ready.”
You are from the Netherlands. What was the football culture like there?
“It was also pretty big, of course, but I don’t think it’s as big as England.”
You came through Utrecht’s academy. What was that experience like?
“It was really nice. I learnt a lot, and it really shaped me as a football player and as a person as well.”
You switched from the Netherlands to Norway. What were your thoughts behind that decision, and what were the two different countries like?
“It was a big cultural difference, and it was such a nice experience as well. I really enjoyed my time there, and I got to meet some really nice and awesome people. I got to play some football, which was really nice as well. It was a great experience.”
Switching countries back then, was it a difficult decision?
“I think it really helped me, and I don’t think I thought about it a lot. I’m just really happy that I did it because it really shaped me as a football player and a person as well.”
You gained promotion to the top division in Norway in one of your seasons as well. What was that campaign like?
“That was really nice because there was a lot of pressure on us because the team just got relegated, and we wanted to go straight up. It was really nice to be part of something, to go up straight away and score some goals and play well. It was awesome.”
You scored 13 goals that season. What was behind your form?
“I felt really good because the goals came in a short period of time. There were some games where I didn’t play as much, so I was really happy with the 13 goals in the time that I played. I felt really good, and I felt really confident at my place, and I hope to create it as well here."
Moving to England, how big a decision was it to change countries again?
“It’s a bit easier because I understand the language. I like the English culture a lot, and it really suits me. I feel quite at home already, so it’s nice.”
From an outsider's perspective, what are your thoughts on the English game and English football?
“Of course, it is physical. It’s almost a way of life for people, so it’s something special here, and that’s what I love so much about it because there is a lot of passion, and that’s what you want.”
Growing up, did you have your eye on any different English teams or players?
"The English league is so big, and so there are so many good players and good teams. I keep an eye on everything. I never really had a favourite club, but I just like English football in general."
You know what the January transfer window is like with games coming thick and fast. How excited are you to really get going?
“I’m really excited. I can’t wait.”
Especially playing at The Mem, that must be an exciting thought as well...
“I saw the match against Colchester at home, and it looked amazing. I can’t wait.”
