Wouter Goes

Wouter Goes switched to AZ Alkmaar's academy in 2016, a move that would shape his career. He stayed within the club's structure for years, stepping up to Jong AZ in 2021 and spending three seasons in the Eerste Divisie with the reserves, making 37 appearances before earning his place in the first team.

The promotion to AZ's senior squad came in July 2023, and he has since become a regular fixture at the back. His consistency was recognised individually rather than through team silverware: he was named Johan Cruyff Talent of the Month on three separate occasions, in March 2024, December 2024 and May 2025, a run that reflects a steady rise in his performances over that period. He also earned two places in the Eredivisie Team of the Month, for December 2024 and May 2025.

Goes has never been sent out on loan, developing instead entirely within AZ's own pathway from youth football through to the first team — a route increasingly rare for a defender of his profile. Standing at 188 cm and playing with his right foot, he plays for the Alkmaar side.